A World of Difference (Lori Adams-Brown)

Have you heard these statements about a woman with leadership gifts? 1. That woman is less capable of leadership due to the way she talks/smiles/laughs/doesn't smile. 2. That woman doesn't have the potential because she just got lucky to be where she is. 3. She would be better suited for a supportive role because we need a strong man to lead. We will share the sexism behind these statements rooted in stereotypes, but let's dive deeper into confronting sexism in the church first. In this episode, you will be able to: Confronting sexism in the church: Uncover strategies to challenge and overcome gender bias in conservative church and political settings. Women's leadership in evangelical churches: Explore inspiring stories of women breaking barriers and leading with strength and grace in their communities. Impact of theological beliefs on politics and culture: Understand the influence of ideologies on political dynamics and how to navigate these complexities as either a female or male leader. Role of male allies in promoting gender equality: Learn how to engage and collaborate as supportive male allies to foster an inclusive and equitable church and political environment. Jimmy Carter's Ted Talk. Navigating leadership as a woman in conservative spaces: Gain insights on thriving as a female leader in traditional church settings and embracing your unique role in shaping the future within and outside of church settings. My special guest is Heather Matthews The Rev. Dr. Heather Matthews is the Doctor of Ministry Program Manager at Wheaton College Graduate School. Dr. Matthews has also worked as a pastor, church planter, non-profit leader, and missionary for over twenty years. Heather has a D.Min. from Fuller Seminary, an M.A. in Educational Ministry and an M.A. in Counseling Ministry from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. Heather’s area of expertise is women in church leadership. She is the author of Confronting Sexism in the Church: How We Got Here and What We Can Do About It published by InterVarsity Press which will be available August 27, 2024. Heather’s broad range of personal and professional experience allows her to teach and consult on topics including abuse and trauma; gender and sexuality; healthy Christian leadership; church planting and pastoral ministry; marriage and divorce; betrayal and pornography; social and racial justice issues, cross-cultural issues, and local and global mission. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Confronting Sexism in the Church 00:02:26 - The Influence of Religion and Politics 00:08:44 - Role of Male Allies 00:11:10 - Personal Journey and Motivation for the Book 00:13:44 - Broad Examination of Sexism in Evangelicalism 00:14:40 - The Impact of Complementarian Culture 00:16:29 - Unconscious Sexism and Hidden Patriarchy 00:19:10 - Women's Stories of Sexism and Discrimination 00:21:43 - Lack of Equity in Church Leadership 00:26:07 - Shaping Perspectives through Diverse Backgrounds 00:31:21 - Impact of the Last 50 Years on Women in the Church 00:33:19 - Gender Biases in Leadership 00:35:20 - Visibility of Women's Contributions 00:38:00 - Sexist Tropes and Gender Expectations 00:43:58 - Creating Supportive Environments for Women in Churches 00:46:53 - The Reality of Abuse in the Church 00:47:33 - Sexism in the Church and Abuse 00:48:21 - The Church's Problem with Sexism 00:49:29 - Confronting Sexism Everywhere 00:50:35 - Creating Gender Equalities in Leadership Follow us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference (For exclusive content, including interviews with guests.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Climate Crisis & Christian Discipleship with Kyle Meyaard-Schaap Join us as we explore one man's journey from skeptic to environmental advocate through the lens of his faith. But just as he begins to offer solutions, a looming threat interrupts, leaving him and the audience with a question: will the church wake up and stand up to protect God's creation? My special guest is Kyle Meyaard-Schaap Introducing Kyle Meyaard-Schaap, a devoted advocate for Christian climate action and environmental care. Rev. Kyle Meyaard-Schaap (MY-yurd SKOP) serves as the Vice President of the Evangelical Environmental Network. For the last ten years, he has educated and mobilized Christians around the world to address the climate crisis as an act of discipleship and neighbor-love. Kyle has been named to Midwest Energy Group's 40 Under 40, the American Conservation Coalition’s 30 Under 30, and the Grist 50 Fixers cohorts for his work on climate change education and advocacy. In 2020, he was named a Yale Public Voices on the Climate Crisis Fellow. His work has been featured in national and international news outlets such as PBS, NPR, CNN, NBC News, New York Times, Reuters, and U.S. News and World Report. His book, Following Jesus in a Warming World: A Christian Call to Climate Action, was released by InterVarsity Press in February 2023. Kyle is married to Allison and lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with their two sons. Visit his website at kylemeyaardschaap.com. Follow him on Twitter: @kmeyaardschaap. Caring for creation is a fundamental part of every human being's vocation because that's how God made us. - Kyle MeyaardSchaap In this episode, you will be able to: Grasp Christian obligations towards environmental stewardship and climate action. Find out the significance of incorporating native plants in the battle against climate change. Expose the hidden causes driving climate change skepticism in political and religious spheres. Discover the potential of generational dialogue in forging Christian action against climate change. Engage in a hopeful pursuit of creative solutions and resolute action for a sustainable future. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Read Kyle's book, Following Jesus in a Warming World: A Christian Call to Climate Action. Promo code: AWORLD23 Listeners can get 30 percent off the ebook and physical book (free shipping) at ivpress.com through 5/19 Find unique ways to care for creation and protect the environment, based on your own vocation and interests. Implement practices that bring joy and enhance your experience of creation. Participate in events and initiatives that promote environmental care and protection, such as Indie Creation Fest. Support organizations like the Evangelical Environmental Network that are working towards climate change education and advocacy. Make sustainable choices in your daily life, such as using reusable bags and water bottles, reducing meat consumption, and conserving energy. Advocate for policies and actions that prioritize the environment and address climate change. Worship as Awe and Wonder Worship can be far more than a formalized gathering or ritual. It can be experienced as a profound sense of awe and wonder in everyday life, especially when we open our hearts and minds to the beauty and intricate connections of the natural world. Immersing ourselves in creation and marveling at the marvels of our planet gives us an even greater appreciation for the Creator of all things. In the interview, Kyle Meyaard-Schaap shares his experiences of finding awe in God's creation. He talks about attending the Indie Creation Fest, an event that celebrates God's creation and promotes efforts to protect it. Through embracing beauty in nature, Kyle highlights the importance of cultivating a worshipful approach towards environment and reveals how his faith has been enriched by his journey into creation care. The Importance of Listening to the Younger Generation The youth of today have a unique and valuable perspective on environmental issues, and their voices must be heard. As the generation that will inherit the consequences of climate change, they are more keenly aware of its dangers and are passionately advocating for collective action. By acknowledging their concerns and supporting their efforts, society encourages a more inclusive and effective response to environmental challenges. Kyle Meyaard-Schaap emphasizes the need to listen to and learn from the younger generation. He discusses how young Christians are beginning to question the narratives they were raised on and are challenging the status quo in their communities. By offering support and encouragement to the next generation, we join forces in ensuring a brighter and healthier future for all. This is a beautiful, exhilarating invitation to become more human and to participate in God's joy. - Kyle Meyaard-Schaap I don't know how to love God and to love my neighbor without doing something about forces that are destroying God's good creation. - Kyle Meyaard-Schaap Climate Change as a Moral Issue As global citizens, we must recognize that addressing climate change and participating in creation care is vital. This responsibility becomes even more significant for those who identify as Christian, as it speaks to the core principles of loving God and loving our neighbors. Climate change is a moral issue that needs to be acknowledged and faced head-on, as it deeply impacts not only the environment but also the life and well-being of countless communities around the world. By dedicating ourselves to the cause, we can positively contribute to a better future. Kyle Meyaard-Schaap, in his conversation with Lori Adams-Brown, underscores the connection between faith and creation care. Growing up in a conservative Christian community, Kyle had not initially understood this connection. It was only through his brother's studies - and exploring the relationship between ecology, biology, and scripture himself - that Kyle realized the importance of engaging with environmental stewardship as a Christian. He encourages fellow believers to examine the issue through the lens of their faith and calls on them to actively participate in creation care. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction, 00:03:09 - Celebrating Earth Day, 00:08:41 - Climate Change as a Moral Issue, 00:12:54 - Finding Your Earth-Keeping Vocation, 00:16:01 - Conclusion, 00:16:32 - Worship as Awe and Wonder, 00:18:15 - Surprising Ways to Steward the Planet, 00:22:56 - Skepticism Around Climate Change, 00:29:06 - Muddy Public Conversation Around Climate Change, 00:31:31 - Recovering God's Story, 00:33:43 - The Importance of Listening to the Younger Generation, 00:35:20 - Recognizing the Need for Change in the Church, 00:37:23 - Finding Hope and Inspiration in Community, 00:38:30 - Casting a Vision for an Inspiring Future, 00:38:58 - The Epilogue, If you're feeling frustrated and helpless because your efforts to protect the environment through actions like recycling or using eco-friendly products aren't making a significant impact, then you are not alone! Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction, Lori Adams-Brown introduces Kyle Meyaard-Schaap, the vice president of the Evangelical Environmental Network. They talk about his book, Following Jesus in a Warming World, and his work on climate change education and advocacy. 00:03:09 - Celebrating Earth Day, Kyle talks about Indie Creation Fest, an event he helped plan and host in Indianapolis. The festival brings together people to celebrate God's creation, learn from each other, and get involved in activities that help protect the environment. 00:08:41 - Climate Change as a Moral Issue, Kyle explains that climate change is a moral issue that Christians should care about. He believes that following Jesus means loving God and loving our neighbor, and taking care of the environment is part of that calling. 00:12:54 - Finding Your Earth-Keeping Vocation, Kyle believes that everyone has a unique calling to care for the environment, and that it's important to find practices that bring you joy. He suggests reframing the conversation around environmental care from one of guilt and obligation to one of joy and participation in God's joy. 00:16:01 - Conclusion, Lori and Kyle wrap up the conversation by reminding listeners that caring for the environment is a beautiful and exhilarating invitation to become more human and to participate in God's joy. They encourage people to find their own unique ways to connect with the environment and care for it. 00:16:32 - Worship as Awe and Wonder, Worship as awe and wonder, and taking care of the planet through native landscaping, scouting, and activism. 00:18:15 - Surprising Ways to Steward the Planet, Kyle talks about the importance of using native plants for landscaping to help mitigate climate impacts, and how to bring your land into better harmony with the natural ecosystem around you. 00:22:56 - Skepticism Around Climate Change, Kyle addresses skepticism around climate change in the US, and the reasons why it exists. He discusses the political, theological, and societal stories that have shaped American attitudes towards climate change. 00:29:06 - Muddy Public Conversation Around Climate Change, Kyle talks about the concerted effort by fossil fuel corporations to muddy the public conversation around climate change, and the false narratives and misleading information that have been spread about the issue. 00:31:31 - Recovering God's Story, Kyle discusses the importance of recovering God's story in relation to climate change, and how the greatest commandment to love God and love our neighbor is directly related to our responsibility to care for the planet. 00:33:43 - The Importance of Listening to the Younger Generation, Kyle highlights the significance of listening to the younger generation and explains how they can help in shaping a better future. He hopes that readers who recognize the harmful stories they were told about climate change and the environment will understand that they are not alone in their passion for change. 00:35:20 - Recognizing the Need for Change in the Church, Kyle emphasizes the importance of recognizing how the church has been compromised by incomplete and harmful stories around creation and climate change. He encourages young Christians who have recognized this and still love the church to call out the problematic stories and try to bring about change. 00:37:23 - Finding Hope and Inspiration in Community, Kyle believes that the work of Christian climate action has to happen in community and encourages readers to find their people and do this work together. He acknowledges that it can be hard to hold hope, and having a community to hold hope for each other is crucial. 00:38:30 - Casting a Vision for an Inspiring Future, Kyle talks about the importance of casting a vision for an inspiring future that can be created by taking action together. He encourages readers to exercise their imagination and imagine the kind of world they want to create by taking action on climate change. 00:38:58 - The Epilogue, In the epilogue, Kyle writes a letter to his imagined granddaughter in 2066, casting a vision for a better, safer, and more prosperous world. Calling all Christians who want to take action for our planet and its future! Have you heard the myths that suggest that taking care of our environment is not a Christian responsibility? That climate change is not real? Or that our actions won't make a difference? It's time to debunk these myths and embrace the truth. Join us as Kyle Meyaard-Schaap shares the facts and inspires us to take action towards creation care and climate justice. For those who are different and want to make a difference Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever heard these myths about gender equality in the church? 1. Women are not called to preach or lead. 2. Men are the only ones fit for leadership roles. 3. Women should only serve in supportive roles. A new children's book challenges these myths. Want to know more? In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how children's books on gender equality in ministry can shape young minds. Explore the profound impact of representation in children's literature on young readers. Uncover the vital role of women in faith communities and its impact on future generations. Experience the healing power of inclusive storytelling in children's literature. Learn about the benefits of early exposure to diverse leadership roles for children's development. My special guests are Amy Dixon & Rob Dixon Amy Dixon is the author of three picture books—Maurice the Unbeastly, Sophie's Animal Parade, and Marathon Mouse—as well as a middle grade novel. When she's not writing, she is editing and marketing other people's books. She writes from her home in Clovis, California. Rob Dixon is the author of Together in Ministry: Women and Men in Flourishing Partnerships. In addition to serving on InterVarsity staff for more than twenty-six years, Rob teaches at Fuller Theological Seminary and Fresno Pacific University. Rob was also on EPS 65 of the podcast. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the World of Difference podcast 00:01:31 - Introducing Amy and Rob Dixon 00:05:34 - Inspiration for "Penny Preaches" 00:08:54 - Importance of Representation 00:11:55 - Shaping Children's Gifts and Attributes 00:13:15 - Importance of Female Leadership in the Church 00:14:27 - Penny's Relationship with God 00:15:48 - Women's Call to Ministry 00:18:49 - Gender Equality in the Church 00:22:57 - Impact of Female Representation 00:27:15 - Challenging Gender Norms in Christianity 00:28:36 - Generational Change in Empowerment 00:28:54 - Urgency for Change 00:30:04 - Inclusivity of Boys in Empowerment 00:32:08 - Inspiring Little Girls and Boys 00:40:19 - Gratitude for the Community 00:40:53 - Support and Connection 00:41:24 - The Power of Being Present To purchase the book Penny Preaches by Amy and Rob Dixon, visit IVP Press or any major book retailer. Connect with Amy Dixon on her website amydixonbooks.com for more information about her work and to stay updated on her latest projects. Follow Amy Dixon on Instagram at @amydixonbooks for engaging content and updates on her writing and publishing journey. Join the Patreon community at www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference to access exclusive episodes with guests like Amy and Rob Dixon, as well as other thought-provoking content and discussions. Take a moment to practice self-compassion and self-care. Remember that you matter and your healing journey is important. https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Use Promo Code: AWORLD22 to get 30 percent off plus free shipping of the ebook and hard copy of Liturgical Mission at ivpress.com. The code is good from today through 11/2 Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Winfield Bevins is an internationally recognized author, teacher, and coach. He is director of Church Planting at Asbury Theological Seminary and co-founder of Healthy Rhythms Coaching, which is a global online coaching and training platform to help leaders thrive. He has helped train leaders in over twenty nations and six continents. He frequently speaks at conferences, seminaries, and universities on a variety of topics. He has a doctorate from Southeastern Seminary and is finishing a PhD program at Aberdeen University. His writing and research explores the intersection of tradition, innovation, and the future of the church. He is the author of several books including Liturgical Mission: The Work of the People for the Sake of the World (InterVarsity Press, 2022) ,Ever Ancient Ever New: The Allure of Liturgy for a New Generation (Zondervan, 2019) and Marks of a Movement (Zondervan, 2019). Winfield’s work has been featured in various outlets such as Christianity Today, Publishers Weekly, Outreach Magazine, and Religious News Service. Winfield is also an award winning artist. Over the past decade, he has helped start numerous arts initiatives, including a non-profit art gallery and studio.In 2021, he was commissioned to paint an icon for the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in honor of his visit to the USA. He is the resident artist for Drinklings Coffee. He and his wife Kay have three beautiful girls Elizabeth, Anna Belle, and Caroline and live in the Bluegrass state of Kentucky. When he is not teaching or writing, you’ll likely find him hiking, kayaking or painting. ***** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of A World of Difference, host Lori Adams-Brown discusses the importance of embracing discomfort and living outside of your comfort zone. As she notes, "The more we push ourselves, the more we grow and evolve as individuals." Breaking Barriers: Stepping Out of Comfort Zones Looking to become a better global citizen, leader or simply step outside your comfort zone? Then, don't miss A World of Difference podcast hosted by cross cultural expert, Lori Adams-Brown. This episode is all about stepping outside your comfort zone, which can be scary but the benefits are immense. Lori shares her experience of crossing cultures, reminding listeners to embrace vulnerability for personal growth and tackling important skills like empathy and adaptability. To help her audience, Lori suggests different methods like taking cooking classes, going to cultural festivals or using Duolingo to learn new languages. The podcast ends with a reminder to embrace differences and to keep making a difference in the world. Don't wait, subscribe now to A World of Difference and join the conversation about diversity and inclusion! Lori Adams-Brown, "One way to expand your horizons is by immersing yourself in different cultures, and this can be through travel. It could be attending a cultural event. By talking to people from different backgrounds and exposing ourselves to different ways of human life." Timestamps [00:00:02] Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone [00:02:58] The Value of Cultural Exploration [00:06:18] The Importance of Stepping Outside Our Comfort Zone [00:09:40] Benefits of Vulnerability in Cultural Learning [00:13:03] Embracing discomfort for growth and connection Episode Links Best Quotes [00:00:06] This is a podcast for those who are different and wanna make a difference [00:05:33] So what if I told you that stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to personal growth and a greater understanding of the world around [00:06:30] But also, we change in the process of learning from other people. We become better versions of ourselves when we expose ourselves and open ourselves up at vulnerability in our minds to change of how we might learn from someone else [00:08:58] It's not always easy to step outside our comfort zones because if fear and the unknown can really hold us back, and it can be difficult to even know where to start sometimes [00:02:58] But if that's outside of your comfort zone, maybe that's the kind of situation you're thinking about today as I think as we talk about being outside your comfort zone [00:06:48] Stepping out of our comfort zones can also help us develop important skills such as being adaptable. Empathetic. We all know that empathetic leaders are the best kinds of leaders [00:08:58] It's not always easy to step outside our comfort zones because if fear and the unknown can really hold us back, and it can be difficult to even know where to start sometimes [00:01:53] We have so many voices and perspectives that we wanna hear from and want to join together to collaborate in this effort of us all around the world, so please leave us a review [00:11:16] Culture around the world dance so differently, and we can learn a lot about culture by just learning to dance [00:03:38] Going outside of my comfort zone would be probably sitting with a bunch of women learning to do crafts or knitting or sewing or something of that nature I don't know what he does about that, but it's just really outside of my comfort zone [00:05:33] So what if I told you that stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to personal growth and a greater understanding of the world around [00:00:06] This is a podcast for those who are different and wanna make a difference [00:06:30] But also, we change in the process of learning from other people. We become better versions of ourselves when we expose ourselves and open ourselves up at vulnerability in our minds to change of how we might learn from someone else [00:02:06] My question is, have you ever found yourself in a situation where you were outside of your comfort zone? [00:04:56] And for many of us, being in an unfamiliar territory can be intimidating, even scary [00:09:30] This can be a great way to connect with other people who are also interested in learning about other cultures [00:07:50] So, it's not just about gaining knowledge, it's about stepping out of our comfort zone and developing these new skills, learning to be flexible and handling changes that come our way and challenges in ways that we're better able to not cope with, but to embrace and learn from and overcome those obstacles and move forward [00:10:40] Duolingo is a great app if you're wanting to learn another language, but also it could be just taking cooking classes [00:01:15] Either way, this podcast is gonna have something for all of us to learn Here are three tips to help you embrace discomfort and grow: 1. Start small: It's easy to get overwhelmed and anxious when facing something new. Start with small, manageable steps that push you just outside your comfort zone. For example, strike up a conversation with someone you don't know at a networking event or try a new hobby. 2. Celebrate your successes: Acknowledge and celebrate each time you step out of your comfort zone. Whether it's a small or big win, take pride in your progress and use it to build momentum for your next challenge. 3. Learn from failures: It's okay to stumble and make mistakes. Use these experiences as opportunities for growth and learning. Ask yourself what you could have done differently and how you can apply these lessons moving forward. If you're looking for motivation to embrace discomfort and grow, this podcast episode is a must-listen. As Lori says, "The more we get out of our comfort zones, the more we're living life to the fullest." Here are three key takeaways from the episode: 1. Discomfort is necessary for growth: In order to grow and develop as individuals, we must embrace discomfort and push ourselves to try new things. This can be scary and intimidating, but it's the only way to truly expand our horizons. 2. Failure is not the end: Stepping outside your comfort zone inevitably means you will experience setbacks and failures. But as Lori points out, "Failure is not the end. It's simply an opportunity to learn, grow, and adapt." Don't let fear of failure hold you back from taking risks and trying new things. 3. Embracing discomfort can lead to greater fulfillment: When we stay within the confines of our comfort zones, we're limiting ourselves. By embracing discomfort and taking risks, we open ourselves up to new experiences and opportunities that can lead to greater fulfillment and satisfaction in life. If you're ready to step outside your comfort zone and embrace discomfort, this podcast episode is a great place to start. As Lori says, "We all have the power to change our lives for the better. It starts with being brave enough to take that first step." Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Access all the exclusive episodes, including a new one this week where Lori shares about language learning from a 4-year-old in a homestay in Indonesia. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you wondered why so many keep saying they have been spiritually abused, and yet you wonder what spiritual abuse even is? Dr. Karen Roudkovski shares her research in her latest book on spiritual abuse and the toll it takes on various types of people and in many types of spiritual spaces even outside of religious houses of worship. Unlock the unexpected truth about spiritual abuse with a licensed therapist who has personally experienced it. Dive deep into the surprising insights and shocking realities of spiritual abuse and how it could happen to anyone, even in unexpected places. Don't miss the exclusive interview where she reveals why the statement "This would never happen to me" is a dangerous assumption. Get ready to be blown away by the eye-opening revelations about spiritual abuse and its impact. Stay tuned for the jaw-dropping truth that will change the way you view spiritual abuse forever. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the signs and dynamics of spiritual abuse within religious environments to protect yourself and others. Discover the profound impact of spiritual abuse on mental health and well-being, gaining insights into its lasting effects. Explore the role of therapy in the journey of recovering from spiritual abuse, learning about effective healing strategies. Access valuable spiritual abuse assessment tools to gain clarity and validation on your experiences. Navigate the complexities of workplace abuse within church settings, gaining awareness and empowerment to address these issues. Our special guest is: Dr. Karen Roudkovski earned the Master of Divinity and Master of Theology degrees, in addition to a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and counseling professor. Dr. Roudkovski is the author of Understanding Spiritual Abuse: What it Is and How to Respond, Spiritual Abuse Assessment: A Tool for Survivors and Their Helpers which released on 8/1/24. She is the author of the forthcoming Spiritual Abuse Recovery Workbook: Engaging Faith in Healing. She is also the co-author of a forthcoming book entitled Counseling through the Storm, on the topic of crisis counseling in ministry and is currently writing a book on the topic of anxiety. EPS with grounding techniques with Dr. Debbie Pinkston EPS with Dr. Wade Mullen on Spiritual Abuse EPS with Dr. Diane Langberg on Spiritual Abuse The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Spiritual Abuse 00:01:40 - Trigger Warning and Grounding Techniques 00:05:49 - Defining Spiritual Abuse 00:08:20 - Writing the Book on Spiritual Abuse 00:15:00 - Minimization of Spiritual Abuse 00:16:12 - Damaging Effects of Spiritual Abuse 00:16:53 - Grooming and Spiritual Abuse 00:18:20 - Idealized Leadership and Hierarchical Structures 00:19:52 - Power Dynamics in Mega Churches 00:31:15 - Areas of Control in Spiritual Abuse 00:32:42 - Importance of Acceptance and Unrealistic Expectations 00:34:03 - Forms of Spiritual Abuse 00:36:14 - Isolation and Control 00:39:19 - Spiritual Abuse of Church Leaders 00:46:43 - Prevalence of Spiritual Abuse in Southern Baptist Ministers 00:47:20 - Qualitative Study on Associate Pastors' Experiences 00:48:09 - Denial of Spiritual Abuse 00:48:48 - Making Churches Safer 00:50:13 - Where to Find Karen Roudkovski 00:51:35 - Impact of Spiritual Abuse 01:01:36 - Appreciation for the Global Audience 01:02:10 - Importance of Reviews and Sharing 01:02:49 - Making a Difference  Follow us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Craig Greenfield is the founder and director of Alongsiders International, a grassroots movement of young Christians reaching the world's poorest children. Originally from New Zealand, he has lived and worked for more than two decades in marginalized communities in Asia and North America. He is the author of The Urban Halo and Subversive Jesus. Follow him on Facebook: www.facebook.com/craigwgreenfield Visit his website at CraigGreenfield.com Follow him on Twitter: @craigasauros Use code: AWORLD22 to buy Subversive Mission at ivpress.com. The code will be good November 30-December 14 for the e-book, paperback and free shipping. The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the unexpected twist in Dr. Scot McKnight's journey toward creating a more literal Bible translation that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about the New Testament. Are you ready to slow down, think, and immerse yourself in the first-century Christian world? Words matter, especially in translations of the Bible. Join us as we dive into the world of New Testament translations with Scot McKnight and uncover the importance of accurate translations and the impact they can have. When it comes to women in ministry, though, and the use of certain words, will the translation choices make or break their place in the church? Find out in this thought-provoking discussion. In this episode, you will be able to: Recognize the value of cultural understanding and meticulous translation in the proper interpretation of the Bible. Delve into the intricate dynamics of power within the church and their varied consequences. Learn how to address spiritual abuse effectively and foster a support system for survivors. Embrace the core principles of good leadership and the altruistic use of power in ministry. Highlight the vital insights shared by women scholars and survivors for a more inclusive faith community. My special guest is Dr. Scot McKnight Meet Dr. Scot McKnight, a renowned New Testament professor at Northern Seminary in Illinois and a prolific author with a passion for diving deep into the cultural context of biblical texts. As a guest on Lori Adams-Brown's podcast, Scot brings his expertise in Bible translation and interpretation, having written over 90 books, including widely-read titles like "A Church Called Tove" and "The Blue Parakeet." A dedicated advocate for abuse survivors and a favorite professor among his students, Dr. McKnight's insights are sure to enrich your understanding of the Bible. "I believe in the power of a more literal translation."- Dr. Scot McKnight The resources mentioned in this episode are: Pre-order Dr. Scott McKnight's new translation of the New Testament, The Second Testament. Use AWORLD23 to get 30% off plus free shipping at @ivpress.com on The Second Testament through June 7. Subscribe to Dr. McKnight's Substack newsletter, the Jesus Creed. Consider taking Greek classes with Dr. McKnight at Northern Seminary. Purchase Dr. McKnight's books, including A Church Called Tov, The King Jesus Gospel, and The Blue Parakeet. Follow Dr. McKnight's blog, the Jesus Creed. Read Dr. McKnight's contributions as general editor of the Dictionary of Paul and His Letters. Explore the Everyday Bible series, including the First Testament by John Golden Gay and The Kingdom New Testament by Tom Wright. The Way of Jesus Good leadership in the church involves recognizing, using, and sharing power in ways that are faithful to the teachings of Jesus. Followers of Jesus should strive to cultivate humility, compassion, and an attitude of serving others, often forgoing one's power to benefit those who are more vulnerable. Dr. Scot McKnight, during the podcast interview, mentioned several examples of power abuse in the church, contrasting them with the biblical teachings of Jesus. He specifically cited Romans 16 and Philippians 2:1-11, which emphasize the concept of Kenosis – the act of laying down one's power to serve others. McKnight believes that understanding this concept and applying it in the context of leadership and church relationships is essential to embodying the way of Jesus and countering the negative aspects of power dynamics in churches. "Words deeply matter, and those words can wound and they can hurt for a long time." - Dr. Scot McKnight Women in Ministry An accurate translation plays a crucial role in recognizing and valuing the contributions of women in the early church. Being mindful of the words used to describe women's roles is crucial as language can shape our understanding and reinforce stereotypes or power dynamics within the church. By translating words and phrases accurately, women's contributions to the early church can be acknowledged and celebrated more fairly. During the conversation, Dr. McKnight emphasized the importance of using accurate translation to highlight women's roles in the church, such as translating the word Phoebe to mean "deacon" rather than "servant." He also mentioned the prevalence of false narratives and power dynamics in church culture that can negatively affect how people perceive women's roles in ministry. By ensuring accurate translations, he believes we can better acknowledge, value, and empower women working in the church. Keeping Names Authentic One of the essential aspects of ensuring cultural authenticity in a Bible translation is the use of names as close as possible to what they would have sounded in the original language. This offers a sense of novelty and unfamiliarity for readers, prompting reflection on the context and culture surrounding the text. By preserving the original names, readers can gain deeper insights into the characters and their significance in the narrative. Dr. McKnight uses transliteration in his translation, meaning that names in the Bible are rendered more authentically, closer to their original language. For instance, Yakobos is used instead of the English equivalent, James. Dr. McKnight argued during the podcast that using such authentic names invites readers to reconsider the context and culture of the Bible's characters, creating a more engaging and meaningful reading experience. "We need to be careful with the words we use for translations because if we don't get it right, it can hurt people." - Dr. Scot McKnight Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:02 - Introduction, Dr. Scott McKnight is an advocate in the survivor community and a professor at Northern Seminary in Illinois. He has written over 90 books and blogs on the Jesus Creed. He talks about his new translation of the New Testament, the Second Testament, which he made more literal to help people understand the ancient context of the text. 00:06:01 - Reason for New Translation, McKnight believes that the capacity to translate Greek into English has reached near perfection, but people miss things when they try to make it a natural English equivalent. He wants to show people the differences between the original Greek sentence and the English sentence. 00:11:37 - Distinctives of the Second Testament, McKnight was inspired to translate the New Testament after reading John Golden Gay's translation of the Old Testament. One of the distinctives is the transliteration of names, which may be confusing but creates an authentic ancient context. McKnight's translation sometimes sounds clunky because it is formally equivalent, but that helps readers slow down and think. 00:14:57 - Keeping Names Authentic, The Second Testament transliterates names to help readers understand the ancient context. This makes the text feel foreign and distant, which is appropriate, as it helps readers dig deeper into cultural exegesis. McKnight believes that being familiar with the text can be a hindrance to truly understanding it. 00:15:47 - Familiarity with the Text, Familiarity with the text can sometimes hold us back in understanding it. 00:16:13 - The Impact of Names on Reading, Dr. Scot McKnight discusses the impact of names on reading and how different names can lead readers to think differently and understand a text in a new way. He suggests that using the original Greek text can take readers into the first-century Christian world and help them understand the text in a new light. 00:18:10 - Women in Ministry, Dr. Scot McKnight discusses the controversy around women pastors, using the example of the lack of pastors in the Bible. He suggests that titles such as Presbuteros, Episkopos, Diakonos were used instead. He also refers to Romans 16, which mentions several women involved in church ministry, including an apostle and a deacon. 00:22:54 - Multiculturalism in the Early Church, Dr. Scot McKnight discusses the multicultural and multiracial nature of the early church, with a mix of slaves and free people, men and women, and Jews and Gentiles. He draws attention to the several women mentioned in Romans 16, performing ministries that today would be called pastoring. 00:27:39 - The Importance of Language, Dr. Scot McKnight emphasizes the importance of language and translation, pointing out that the wrong translation can hurt people. He uses the example of King James' Bible, which made choices to keep its subjects subdued. He also discusses the power dynamics in evangelical churches and how they favor men and certain behaviors that have become manly. 00:33:10 - The Four Types of Power, Dr. Scot McKnight discusses the four types of power: power over, power to influence, power with, and power for. He explains how power over is the most corrupted form of power and how it is prevalent in the business world, sports, and even the church. He also highlights the importance of using power for the good of others and sharing power with others. 00:35:25 - The Power With, Dr. McKnight delves deeper into the concept of power with and how it involves the willingness to share power with someone else to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome. He cites his experience of co-authoring a book with a young man and how they worked together to create a cohesive product. 00:36:53 - Power For, Dr. McKnight discusses the last type of power, power for, which involves using one's power for the good of another person. He cites Jesus Christ as an example of this type of power, as He came not to be served but to serve and give His life for others. 00:40:00 - Dealing with Spiritual Abuse, Dr. McKnight advises people who are experiencing spiritual abuse or know someone who is to first become healthy enough to handle the blowback that comes with going public. He also stresses the importance of having a support system and following the proper protocols or guidelines for reporting abuse. Lastly, he emphasizes the need for patience and resilience as it may take a long time to see change. 00:50:50 - Abusing Power in Churches, Dr. Scott McKnight discusses how some pastors and church leaders abuse their power, particularly with vulnerable members such as children. He encourages readers to follow his work in understanding power dynamics and using power for good, especially with survivors of abuse. 00:52:00 - The Way of Jesus, Dr. Scott McKnight emphasizes the way of Jesus in using power for good and elevating others. He references the Kenosis passage in Philippians 2 and encourages listeners to learn how to understand and wield their power for the benefit of others. 00:53:38 - Call to Action, Lori Adams-Brown issues a call to action for listeners to use their power for good, particularly with survivors of abuse. She encourages finding a survivor and listening to their story while respecting their autonomy and using power to elevate their voice and support them. 00:54:48 - Tov Lori Adams-Brown references Dr. Scott McKnight and Laura Behringer's book, A Church Called TOV, and highlights the importance of using power in tov, or goodness, particularly with survivors of abuse. She encourages listeners to find ways to support survivors and let them lead the way in how they want to share their stories and move forward. 00:56:03 - Conclusion, Lori Adams-Brown thanks listeners for their work in making a difference and encourages them to read Dr. Scot McKnight's book, Second Testament. She also hints at future episodes with Dr. Scot McKnight and his new book with Laura Barringer as a follow up to A Church Called TOV. More Key Takeaways Appreciate the role of cultural context and precise translation in interpreting the Bible effectively. Comprehend the various power dynamics at play within the church and their implications. Recognize signs of spiritual abuse, ensuring adequate support for survivors. Grasp the crucial need for responsible leadership and the ethical use of power. Discover the valuable contributions of female scholars and survivors in the ministry. Realize the importance of context and accurate translation in unlocking the true meaning of biblical passages. Uncover diversities in church power dynamics and their impacts on members. Identify the nature of spiritual abuse and the ways to help survivors heal. Understand the significance of virtuous leadership and the fair exercise of power for communal benefit. Shed light on the often-overlooked perspectives of women scholars and abuse survivors in ministry. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling the weight of past trauma and struggling to heal, then you are not alone! The journey to healing from abuse and trauma is often filled with challenges, and finding the right tools to navigate this journey can be overwhelming. But what if there was a resource that could guide you through this process and help you cultivate well-being? In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the transformative power of therapy in healing from abuse and trauma and reclaiming your well-being. Uncover the impact of narcissism in church leadership and gain insights into navigating the complexities of this issue. Discover the invaluable benefits of professional mental health support and how it can positively impact your healing journey. Understand the profound connection between attachment issues and trauma recovery and how it influences your healing process. Embrace the role of self-regulation in effective leadership and learn how it can enhance your personal and professional growth. My special guest is Dr. Chuck DeGroat Dr. Chuck DeGroat, a professor of pastoral care and Christian spirituality at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the podcast. With a background in therapy, spiritual direction, and as a licensed therapist, Chuck specializes in navigating issues of abuse, trauma, pastoral and leadership health, and doubt. His profound insights and compassionate approach make him a thought leader in the space of healing from workplace abuse and trauma. Chuck's dedication to helping individuals understand and heal from the impact of abuse and trauma, combined with his extensive experience in training clergy and consulting with churches, makes him an invaluable resource for anyone seeking insight and guidance in their healing journey. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:01:40 - Chuck DeGroat's Background 00:03:22 - Evolution of Chuck DeGroat's Approach 00:11:03 - Faux Vulnerability in Church Leadership 00:13:09 - Misuse of Self-Work for Immunity 00:13:40 - Dysfunctional Dynamics in Churches 00:14:58 - Toxic Leadership and Manipulation 00:19:06 - Nervous System Dysregulation 00:22:10 - Healing Attachment Wounds 00:25:52 - Transformation and Non-Anxious Presence 00:26:17 - Recognizing Patterns of Toxic Behavior 00:27:24 - Accountability and Systemic Change 00:29:15 - Rebuilding for the Future 00:30:49 - Understanding Shame Dynamics 00:35:15 - Rediscovering the Goodness of the Heart 00:39:20 - Men Doing Deeper Work 00:40:02 - Bullying and Women 00:41:15 - Complimenting Each Other's Work 00:41:39 - Encouraging Curiosity and Healing 00:42:42 - Embracing Curiosity and Healing 00:53:11 - Finding Healing and Freedom 00:53:32 - Hope in "Healing What's Within" Trauma is not what happens to us, but what happens within. - Chuck DeGroat Order Healing What's Within by Dr. Chuck DeGroot on his website chuckdegroat.net or through major book retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Book Depository. Join the Patreon community at www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference to access exclusive content, one you don't want to miss an exclusive with Dr. Chuck DeGroat. Listen to our first episode with Dr. Chuck DeGroat about his book When Narcissism Comes to Church Explore additional resources recommended by Dr. Chuck DeGroot at the end of each chapter, such as Dan Allender's To Be Told: Know Your Story, Shape Your Life and Frederick Buechner's Telling Secrets. Engage in introspective and mindful practices to support your healing journey, such as deep breathing, visualization, EMDR and brainspotting. Gift Healing What's Within to friends or loved ones who could benefit from the valuable tools and insights shared in the book. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Bluesky TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Dele Downs Kooley's military family, Christmas traditions are reinvented every couple of years, from reindeer food to Snoop on the Stoop. Despite being told single mothers couldn't start over, she took a huge risk to relocate with $1,500 and forged a path to a six-figure income. "I chose not to listen to the stories that we tell ourselves, that society tells us, that condition us to not want more. I chose to create a plan, measure my progress against it, and build the life of my dreams." - Dele Downs Kooley Dele Downs Kooley is a life and leadership coach, certified coach, and author of Inspiring Women Professionals Who Boss Up. She brings 20 years of experience from her Air Force family, Department of Defense, and three law enforcement agencies to her work. Dele had been tasked with taking a huge risk; leaving her 20 year marriage with $1,500 and her daughter, uprooting her life and starting fresh. She had a goal and a plan, and despite the fear and the doubt from those around her, she followed it. After months of hard work, she managed to find a job, make a home for her family and build a life of her dreams. She had to adjust her plan many times, but her ambition and resilience allowed her to overcome all obstacles. Taking the risk was the best decision she ever made. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How did a blended family, with a Jamaican-born mother, manage to move and create traditions around the world? 2. How did the speaker create a plan to start over with $1,500 and no job prospects? 3. How did the speaker manage to defy industry math and reimagine her career to earn a living wage? Resources: https://delekooleycoaching.com/ Other episodes you'll enjoy: Doni Aldine on Third Culture Kids Martine Kalaw on Being a Stateless Immigrant, DEI and Corporations Jake Sasseville on Moving to Costa Rica to Start a Retreat Center Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Website: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here. Chapter Summaries: [00:00:02] A World of Difference is a podcast for those who are different and want to make a difference. Deli Downs Kooley is a life coach and leadership coach. She's here on the show today to talk about her personal journey. [00:02:01] This year, all of the children will be home for the holidays. The family has added snoop on the stoop to their collection. The kids hide their own snoop dogs and go about the day trying to find them. For many, it's a gift to be able to take some time off and enjoy family. [00:04:31] I'm Jamaican by birth. I was born in Jamaica. And moved to Kansas, of all places. Grew up in international schools, and so did my husband. We spent 20 years raising our family in Southeast Asia. Love it. Military family. [00:06:22] Author of book, inspiring Women Professionals Who Boss Up. Her story starts with $1,500.04 suitcases and one girl. She left her 20 year marriage with the biggest risk she's ever taken. Would recommend the book to anyone looking to inspire a young woman or an ally. [00:14:48] The author was told she wouldn't be able to start over when she moved to the U.S. Nine years later, she has remarried and her family is thriving. What inspired her to write the book? The people who took a chance on her. [00:23:55] I'd been offered many jobs where I could work at a higher level, a higher capacity, but my pay wouldn't increase. So I started thinking again about what might a different life look like. How could I reimagine my career again in a way that serves me well? [00:26:42] Did you find that there was bias around you as a woman? Was there a motherhood penalty that you feel like you faced? As a single mom in particular, there's the single mom tax that works against single parents. When you're open and transparent, your working relationships are much better because of it. [00:33:45] Research shows men are seen for their potential and women have to show all the experience and sometimes double the experience. As women, be more open and honest about your aspirations. Be clear about what you want. When you are, it's much easier to find sponsors. [00:43:08] Sometimes our energy is on the things that we have absolutely no control over. Instead, focus on what we do have control over, our plan. If you're focused on the outcome, then you don't get tripped up in the details. [00:53:34] Every job I've ever had was because I knew someone. It's the who you know, that makes such a difference. There's more than one way to connect to the hiring managers resources for jobs that you're interested in. [00:56:20] The bias that impacts women, single moms, first generation, all of those things. Deli Downs is running a New Year's special, Career Catalyst, where she has a coaching package that is currently 60% off of my coaching rates. How can you accelerate your progress in 2023 and beyond? [01:01:39] She's someone who's overcome some adversity and found some handles on how to walk through that. Please reach out to her for coaching. Read her book, glean from her wisdom and her years of experience both abroad and back in her home country. [01:03:04] I know many of you have made some New Year's resolutions. I have my own board of advisors, so to speak, of people I've brought around me. The end of the year and the beginning of a new year is the chance to kind of reset some things. Let us know what you're saying goodbye to from last year. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Dele Downs Kooley (sounds like Deli) is the master of the pivot and your fast pass to the front of the line! She has a diverse background complements of her 20 year adventure as an Air Force family member and Department of Defense civilian, working at three law enforcement agencies, and navigating corporate America at some of the largest names in the business. Her career roles centered on communications, training, finance, program management, and leadership & development. Dele gives to her community through her roles as President of the Board of Directors for No More Under, a non-profit focused on drowning prevention; and sits on the Board of the Leader Transition Institute, a non-profit focused on military transition assistance. She has most recently added the title of author to her list of accomplishments with the December launch of her book project along with other authors: Inspiring Women Professionals Who BossUp: Learning the Ways of Women on the Rise Making an Impact As a certified Leadership + life coach, she uses the lessons she learned along the way to help herclients find clarity on the life they want to live, create intentional pivots, and how to achieve their goals as quickly as possible. She speaks often on the topics of personal development, career transitions, mentoring, resilience, Diversity & Inclusion, and inclusive hiring at companies such as Amazon, Expedia Group, Microsoft, the Women in Tech Regatta, and The Bicycle Leadership Conference. Dele's superpower is networking and connecting people to create magic! When not working or coaching her clients to create the life of their dreams this busy mother of five can be found outside enjoying the Pacific Northwest or at a live sporting event with her family. Dele Downs Kooley Founder, CEO; Dele Kooley Coaching (425) 628-8495 ddownskooley@microsoft.com New Years' Special: you can get 60% off by going to delekooleycoaching.com to book a free session, and ask Delle about the Career Catalyst Package you heard about on the podcast. Find Dellee on Instagram and LinkedIn How Women Rise is a book Delle mentioned that impacted her. ****** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Wade Mullen is the author of Something’s Not Right: Decoding the Hidden Tactics of Abuse – and Freeing Yourself From Its Power. Dr. Mullen is a world renowned expert on abuse in the church. He served ten years in pastoral ministry and then five years as a seminary M.Div. program director and assistant professor before transitioning to full-time research and writing, consulting, speaking, and advocacy. Wade earned a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies and completed a dissertation titled “Impression Management Strategies Used by Evangelical Organizations in the Wake of an Image-threatening Event.” You can get that dissertation for free here. He founded Pellucid Consulting in the Fall of 2021 to provide consulting and independent assessment services for institutions. He started a Substack Newsletter called Pellucid in the Fall of 2021 where I write about the ways in which deception is used to abuse and cover up abuse and how leaders and institutions can act with integrity and speak truthfully. The content is free, but there are also paid options for those who want to support my work. He speaks on occasion at events related to the subject of abuse and institutional response and participates as a guest on podcasts. You can listen to the podcasts here. He continues to engage in research efforts to better understand abuse within Christian cultures and institutions. I’m currently working on preparing a manuscript for a second book. He has also been serving when needed as an institutional response specialist with GRACE since 2020, assisting them primarily with institutional assessments. Wade's work in the local church first introduced him to the needs of abuse victims and the potential for institutional betrayal and trauma when those who are supposed to protect the victim(s) choose to protect the abuser(s). He also learned the challenge of advocating from within and how to confront the system when necessary.  His personal story is told in a profile piece by Sojourner’s Magazine and in a talk he gave at the Restore conference in Chicago. Resources Dr. Mullen mentioned: Meeting the Ethical Challenges of Leadership by Craig E. Johnson Blind to Betrayal: Why We Fool Ourselves We Aren't Being Fooled by Jennifer Freyd Narcissm and the Systems it Breeds video of Dr. Diane Langberg's presentation When Narcissism Comes to Church by Dr. Chuck DeGroat A Church Called TOV by Dr. Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer Redeeming Power: Understanding Authority and Abuse in the Church by Dr. Diane Langberg Suffering and the Heart of God by Dr. Diane Langberg Stalking the Soul: Emotional Abuse and the Erosion of Identity by Marie-France Hirigoyen The Verbally Abusive Relationship by Patricia Evans Is Nothing Sacred? The Story of a Pastor, the Women He Sexually Abused and the Church He Nearly Destroyed by Marie M. Fortune Whispering Truth to Power: Everyday Resistance to Reconciliation in Postgenocide Rwanda by Susan Thomson The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let go of fear and resistance and join the movement of authentic storytelling to make a real difference in the world. "My belief is that for small businesses, like personal brands, online podcast guesting can really be the center of your marketing if you let it - and it can also create all of the content if you will allow yourself to repurpose it, all of the content that you will ever need should you choose to be active on social media or have an email list or those types of things." Christine McAlister Christine McAlister is a media expert with two decades of experience in broadcasting, documentary production and online marketing. She has been featured in Inc, Business Insider, Bustle, The Huffington Post, and on over 100 podcasts, and is passionate about helping entrepreneurs attract their next clients by being top 1% podcast guests. Christine McAlister had been in the media and storytelling industry since 1999, but it wasn't until she was invited to be on her first podcast that she was able to embrace the medium of podcasting as a way to tell stories. She was able to overcome her fear and resistance and began to approach it as a joy. With encouragement from people in the business, Christine pivoted her whole business to helping people share their stories and work in an authentic way. She now helps people realize the power of podcasting to create instant intimacy and connection, and to build their businesses. With her values of humanity, Christine encourages people to focus on quality over quantity, do research, create tailored pitches, and remember that it's a date and not a one night stand. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How to leverage the power of podcast guesting to build your business and market yourself authentically. 2. How to use the power of storytelling to make authentic connections and create an instant intimacy. 3. How to identify clonable clients and tap into the right podcasts to find them. Resources: https://www.lifewithpassion.com/ Other episodes you'll enjoy: Angela Proffitt on productivity Dele Kooley on career pivots Jake Sasseville on big moves Connect with me:  Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Website Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here Chapter Summaries: [00:00:00] A World of Difference is a podcast for those who are different. We have another woman on the show this week, Christine McAlister. She is passionate about helping entrepreneurs attract their next clients by being top 1% podcast guests. This week marks Women's History Month. [00:01:56] Lori: Here we are recording today podcast in Women's History Month, of all things. Having two women and podcasting still a minority. In France, it's the opposite. Maybe we should move to France. [00:02:37] Sally Kohn has been in media and storytelling since 1999. She recorded her first podcast interview when she was eight and a half months pregnant. Kohn pivoted her business to helping people share their stories and their work in a really authentic way. This is why we need to hear women's stories. [00:10:42] For small businesses, online podcast guesting can really be the center of your marketing if you let it. Being a podcast guest specifically can get you in front of a whole new audience. There are so many other beautiful collaborations, connections, benefits. [00:14:58] 3 million podcasts are out there right now. I recommend going back to basics as we would in any business. Quality over quantity, getting in front of the right people. Find out what they're listening to and then research those shows. Create a customized outreach. [00:18:32] Lori: Let's talk about some of the common mistakes people make when they're trying to land a podcast guest opportunity. She says it all starts with shifting the way that you look at it. People remember how you make them feel, and that's just so important in business and education. [00:22:45] Do you have any success stories from your clients or students who've used podcast guesting to grow their businesses? Our clients get an average or book an average of one high ticket client per appearance. We could apply this to change. [00:23:48] Brene Brown grew up in a warm culture, so there's warm cultures cold cultures. podcast is so different. It is an exchange, it is a conversation. There are some skills that you can teach people and I'm glad you're teaching those. [00:27:11] Christine: Do you have any advice for somebody who's, like you mentioned imposter syndrome? She says if there's something that you care about enough or and or a business that you have that you're allowing an exchange of money. We need voices out there that are not speaking right now, she says. [00:33:55] Christine: How can people find you and learn more about the work that you do? I have a checklist that you can use to be a great podcast guest. Everybody go get your dopamine hit by downloading this checklist. I would love to hear how this dopamine hit is making you happier all around the world. [00:35:06] I just love to hear the stories of women in Women's History Month. If you have any interest at all in being a podcast guest, reach out to Christine McAlister. For only $5 a month, you can be a part of this community where we go a little deeper. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does your workplace feel like a battleground at times? Have you been told to just toughen up and deal with it? The pain of workplace bullying can be isolating and damaging to your mental health, leaving you feeling trapped and powerless. If you're tired of feeling this way, it's time to find a better solution to address workplace bullying effectively. Let's explore how you can foster a culture of trust and openness in your teams to prevent workplace bullying and create a psychologically safe environment where everyone can thrive. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand how to prevent workplace bullying with psychological safety. Discover the effects of workplace bullying on mental health. Learn how to cultivate psychological safety in teams. Find out effective ways to address bullying in the workplace. Explore the crucial role of leadership in fostering workplace safety. "Teams with high psychological safety are not only more innovative and productive, but they also create a workplace where bullying is less likely to occur." - Lori Adams-Brown Lori Adams Brown, a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in leadership development, has a personal connection to the issue of workplace bullying. Having been a target of workplace abuse herself, Lori knows firsthand the transformative power of psychological safety. Her journey through overcoming hard challenges and finding healing has fueled her passion for preventing and addressing workplace bullying. She has dived deep into research and personal stories of targets of workplace bullying to understand how psychological safety can play a pivotal role in creating a work environment that not only prevents bullying but also fosters trust and openness. Through her personal experiences and extensive insights, Lori is dedicated to sharing tools and knowledge, not only to help those who have been targets of workplace bullying but also to empower managers and leaders to cultivate psychologically safe teams. Her narrative-style approach evokes a sense of relatability, resonating with the emotions and experiences of her audience, making her an authentic and credible voice in fostering a culture of trust and openness in teams. She shares quick tips from the research and books she has studied as well as the patterns from the qualitative research from stories of targets themselves in order to help anyone wanting to prevent workplace bullying by recognizing the red flags and cultivating an work culture where bullying is prevented and quickly stopped. Learn how to: 1. Build a culture of trust 2. Enhance mental well-being 3. Foster psychological safety The key moments in this episode are: 00:05:21 - Understanding Workplace Bullying 00:09:47 - Psychological Safety and Bullying Prevention 00:12:27 - Creating a Psychologically Safe Environment 00:14:30 - Creating a Culture of Acceptance and Feedback 00:15:28 - Swiftly Addressing Bullying 00:17:31 - Promoting Inclusivity and Respect Resources: EPS on spiritual abuse EPS with grounding techniques with Dr. Debbie Pinkston 1. Google’s Project Aristotle 2. Amy Edmondson’s Work on Psychological Safety   3. The Bully at Work 4. Workplace Bullying Institute 5. The Fearless Organization by Amy Edmondson 6. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) 7. HBR 15 types of bullying Subscribe to the podcast to never miss an episode. Leave a rating for the podcast. Ratings help others discover the podcast and make a significant impact. Leave a review for the podcast. Reviews also help others find the podcast and contribute to its visibility. Share the podcast. Stay connected: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode Lori and Jason Adams-Brown share their story of spiritual abuse and betrayal at Echo.Church and Saddleback Church, while remaining hopeful that God will bring restoration, reconciliation and resurrection through their courageous testimony. Lori Adams-Brown and Jason Adams-Brown are a married couple who share their story of working at Echo.Church in Silicon Valley in order to protect the vulnerable and call out the wolves among us. Please consider signing the petition by Echo Survivors to release former staff at Echo.church from NDAs so they can share their stories and heal. As of this uploading, 1,329 people have signed in support of this NDA free plea. Go to: https://www.change.org/echochurchNDA Trigger warning: If you have experienced spiritual abuse, emotional abuse, psychological abuse or any type of abuse especially in a faith-based environment, this episode deals with content that may be triggering. Please feel free to listen in small chunks or if this is too traumatizing, please feel free to not listen until you are ready. We do recommend speaking with a therapist who is trauma-informed. Please take good care of yourself. "We still hold on to hope and have faith that God can bring restoration, reconciliation, resurrection out of this horrible, awful mess. We believe our brothers, Andy and Felipe, both are behaving very badly. And I wish they hadn't behaved so badly in front of me because then I wouldn't have anything to say. But unfortunately, they did on more than one occasion. And we've not given up on our brothers, and it's because we believe that change can happen and should happen Lori Adams-Brown and Jason Adams-Brown are a married couple who share their story of working at Echo Church in Silicon Valley in order to protect the vulnerable and call out the wolves among us. Lori and Jason Adams-Brown had a strong faith and were dedicated to their work in Singapore, but a change in circumstances forced them to make a difficult decision. After weeks of prayer and fasting, they received a Zoom call offering them two jobs at Echo Church. Lori didn't want the job, but Andy assured her they'd fight for her, and she felt God was speaking to her. Though it was not her heart's desire, they accepted the job in obedience and were soon thrown into a whirlwind of abuse and betrayal. Though they suffered, they still held on to hope that God would bring restoration and reconciliation. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How did Jason and Lori Adams-Brown end up working on the Echo Church staff? 2. How does the story of Echo Church and Saddleback Church illustrate spiritual abuse? 3. How does God use suffering to bring about restoration and reconciliation? Resources: [Insert links to any other lead magnets or Calls to Action from Guest here] Other episodes you'll enjoy: Part 2, Our Story Dr. Wade Mullen on Spiritual Abuse Jenai Auman on Spiritual Abuse Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Website: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here. Chapter Summaries: [00:00:01] Lori Adams-Brown and her husband Jason share their story of working at Echo.Church in Silicon Valley. They hope to call out the wolves among us so that we can help warn the sheep and also help these wolves get the help that they need. We're not going to share it all at once. [00:01:37] We believe our brothers, Andy and Filipe, both are behaving very badly. And so I would just hope people would consider that just to listen with an open heart and open mind. We still hold on to hope that God can bring restoration, reconciliation, resurrection out of this horrible, awful mess. [00:07:08] Jason and Lori came to Echo Church while on a stateside assignment in 2017, 2018. Originally wanted to partner with Echo Church and Andy and Filipe and start a church in Singapore. When circumstances changed, Echo.Church offered Lori and Jason jobs. [00:17:05] We loved the work that we're doing. There was still more work to be done. I took this role because I knew it was what God wanted. It ended up being a lot of suffering in that journey. But I still stand by the fact that God led us to do this. [00:18:48] Lori's main question for Andy in her interview process was what do you believe about spiritual authority. After arriving at Echo.Church, she realized Andy had a very different view of authority. [00:24:01] Lori: I've never worked on a staff at a church. There was just so much more of a higher level of stress that I noticed on those that were working at the campus level. The biggest red flags early on where I started to think something's not right. [00:28:08] As people who've walked through spiritual abuse, part of the way we heal is to tell our stories. Just you listening today is really a part of just helping us heal. We've done a lot of healing, but with this kind of thing it just takes time. [00:35:55] When COVID hit, there was a constant push against Dr. Sarah Cody's lockdown. Andy was constantly pushing against her regulations. In some ways, it felt like the art of pastoring was something I was having to carry a lot of the load for with so many of the Sunnyvale campus's needs during lockdown. [00:44:39] Jason: My role was more in helping other churches do outreach. Now looking back, the motivation behind all that was not about loving the community. It was about trying to groom other smaller churches that might then recognize we could merge with them. [00:48:03] Within a month of arriving at Echo, staff they were told you would get fired for gossiping. Contagious joy was one of the values, and it was used like a weapon. Lori: It was more like work related conversations I was afraid to have. Looking back, I am ashamed that I was that naive. [00:54:32] Andy Wood came into the SLT meeting in summer of 2020, with a new strategy of "driving two cars," the digital car and the socially distanced outdoor services car. "How is it possible to drive two cars?," Lori asked. This was the question. From then on, things have never, ever been the same. Lori and Jason Adams-Brown share their story of spiritual abuse, emotional abuse and psychological abuse at Echo.church in San Jose, CA at the hands of Andy Wood and Filipe Santos. Their story is by no means the worst story of abuse behind the curtain of Echo.church, but it is one that is not covered by the many NDA's that Andy and Filipe had many staff sign over the years in order to control the narrative and image manage the abuse of particular staff over the years. Many former staff have shared their stories, but due to fear of going public and also the many NDA's, there is much fear. This is part one of their story: The Calm Before the Storm. Part 2: The Question Part 3: The Gaslighting and the Flanking Part 4: The Firing Squad Part 5: Image Management & Discrediting the Whistleblower Part 6: Disaster Relief & False Narratives Open Letter by Gabriel Beddingfield to Echo.church Open Letter by Echo Survivors to Echo.church Religion News article by Bob Smietana Julie Roys's 2nd article Julie Roys's 1st article Julie Roys's article after NDA petition reached 700 signatures Julie Roys's article about the predatory nature of Echo.church's "merges" Julie Roys's article on the pattern of retaliation Religion News article on NDAs (that mentions Andy Wood and the Saddleback situation) by Katelyn Beaty, author of Celebrities for Jesus Lori's appearance as a guest on Talkin' Politics and Religion Without Killin' Each Other podcast with Corey Nathan. Lori's Linktree for more articles and updates Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Michelle Ferrigno Warren is the president and CEO of Virago Strategies, a consulting firm for civic engagement campaigns impacting poor communities. The author of The Power of Proximity, she cofounded Open Door Ministries, a community development 501(c)(3) corporation in downtown Denver, to address poverty, addiction, and homelessness through social programs. Michelle has been working in Christian community development for twenty-nine years utilizing her skills as an educator, worship leader, non-profit manager, public policy specialist, and faith-rooted activist. With policy expertise in economic justice and human service issues, she has served as advocacy and strategic engagement director for the Christian Community Development Association and done coalition work with the National Immigration Forum. Michelle is a senior fellow with the Dietrich Bonhoeffer Institute and adjunct faculty at Denver Seminary.  Michelle's advocacy work has been featured in local Colorado markets like The Denver Post and Colorado Public Radio as well as national Christian and secular media outlets like The New York Times, The L.A. Times, PBS News Hour, Christianity Today, CBN, WORLD magazine, Sojourners, and numerous others. She holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Cedarville University and a master's in public administration from the University of Colorado. She and her husband live in Denver's Westside neighborhood and have three adult children.  Visit her website at michelleferrignowarren.com. Follow her on Twitter: @mcfwarren. Her latest book is: Join the Resistance: Step into the Good Work of Kingdom Justice Her Spotify Playlist that Michelle mentioned. ***** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Renowned sleep doctor, Dr. Barry Krakow, battles dismissive doctors, empowers patients, and transforms lives through the power of proper diagnosis and treatment for sleep disorders, unlocking the key to improved mental well-being. My special guest is Barry Krakow Barry Krakow is a seasoned medical professional and a celebrated figure in the world of sleep science. With over three decades of dedicated service, Barry has helped countless individuals navigate through sleep disorders, from chronic nightmares and insomnia to Restless Leg Syndrome. As a board-certified internist, his work has shed light on the intricate relationship between sleep quality and mental health. Barry is currently a professor at Mercer University School of Medicine, where he oversees the training of future psychiatrists in the field of sleep medicine. His life's work and distinct insights make him an invaluable guide for those struggling with sleep disorders and mental health issues. By having these problems with your sleep, it's not just all psychological. You end up with cardiovascular diseases, neurologic problems. Sleep is a huge deal. - Barry KrakowIn this episode, you will be able to: Gain insights into how sleep disorders intertwine with mental health, illuminating a side of psychological resilience few have considered. Learn about the successful methods used in dealing with long-term nightmares and sleeplessness, and the prospect of finally getting that elusive good night's rest. Appreciate why taking stock of sleep quality is paramount and the significant benefits it brings to your day-to-day activities. Understand the challenges in securing good care for sleep disorders and strategies to navigate them. Delve into the sleep needs of teenagers, and the profound effects sleep has on their overall development and well-being. Emphasize the importance of addressing sleep quality Maintaining quality sleep is essential for both physical and mental health. It's an area that often gets overlooked, but poor sleep quality can result in deteriorating mental health conditions and reduced alertness during the day. Therefore, prioritizing sleep quality by seeking professional help when needed and implementing beneficial habits can dramatically improve overall well-being. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Purchase Dr. Barry Krakow's book Life Saving Sleep: New Horizons in Mental Health Treatment to learn more about the relationship between sleep and mental health. Visit Dr. Krakow's website to find resources and information about sleep disorders and treatment options. If you or someone you know is struggling with sleep and mental health, consider seeking help from a sleep doctor or specialist in your area. Explore the various treatment options available for sleep disorders, including medication, therapy, and alternative therapies. Take steps to improve the quality of your sleep by establishing a consistent bedtime routine, creating a sleep-friendly environment, and practicing relaxation techniques before bed. Consider using sleep tracking devices or apps to monitor your sleep patterns and identify any potential issues. Prioritize self-care and stress management techniques to reduce the impact of mental health on your sleep. Educate yourself about the connection between sleep disorders and mental health, and advocate for better understanding and treatment within the mental health community. If you suspect that your sleep problems may be related to an underlying mental health condition, consult with a mental health professional for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan. Reach out to support groups or online communities Join his SUBSTACK URL FOR FREE SLEEP NEWSLETTER: https://fastasleep.substack.com/ The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction, 00:03:11 - Connecting Sleep and Mental Health, 00:08:28 - Importance of Sleep Quality, 00:12:18 - Sleep's Impact on Mental Health, 00:14:57 - Long-term Consequences of Untreated Sleep Disorders, 00:16:26 - The Importance of Sleep Technology, 00:19:14 - The Life-Changing Impact of Proper Treatment, 00:23:04 - Non-Medication Strategies for Improved Sleep, 00:25:45 - Finding the Right Sleep Center, 00:32:17 - The Impact of Nightmares and Insomnia in Adolescents 00:34:09 - Nonpharmacological Treatments for Nightmares and Insomnia 00:35:16 - Changing Perspectives on Sleep 00:38:05 - Finding Therapists for Treating Insomnia and Nightmares 00:48:02 - Gratitude for Sleep Expert, 00:48:24 - Making a Difference in Lives, 00:48:40 - Unique Research and Profession, 00:49:20 - Join the Difference Maker Community, 00:49:35 - Farewell and Gratitude, Stop counting number of hours of sleep and look at the fact that there must be something wrong with the quality of your sleep itself. Sleep does this amazing brainwashing technique in the middle of the night, so to speak, where it cleanses the brain of toxic molecules. - Barry Krakow Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:02 - Introduction, Introduction to the podcast and guest, Dr. Barry Krakow, a sleep medicine specialist, and his expertise in treating sleep disorders related to mental health. 00:03:11 - Connecting Sleep and Mental Health, Dr. Krakow discusses his groundbreaking research on the connection between sleep disorders, such as nightmares and insomnia, and mental health conditions like PTSD. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and treating sleep disorders as independent issues. 00:08:28 - Importance of Sleep Quality, Dr. Krakow highlights the significance of sleep quality over the number of hours slept. He explains that fragmented sleep with disrupted brainwave patterns can lead to feelings of unrefreshed sleep and daytime fatigue. 00:12:18 - Sleep's Impact on Mental Health, The discussion delves into the various mechanisms by which sleep affects mental health. Dr. Krakow explains how sleep improves energy levels, cleanses the brain of toxic molecules, and its correlation with the glymphatic system, which may influence the risk of dementia. 00:14:57 - Long-term Consequences of Untreated Sleep Disorders, Dr. Krakow emphasizes the wide-ranging consequences of untreated sleep disorders on both mental and physical health, including cardiovascular and neurological issues. He warns against prolonged reliance on medications or ineffective advice, urging individuals to seek proper treatment for their sleep disorders. 00:16:26 - The Importance of Sleep Technology, The guest discusses the importance of having advanced technology in sleep centers to accurately diagnose sleep disorders. He shares a story about a single mom who was constantly tired and struggling at work. After being dismissed by other sleep centers, she found relief through a specific technology that measured her breathing in a unique way. 00:19:14 - The Life-Changing Impact of Proper Treatment, The guest recounts the story of the single mom who experienced a miraculous improvement in her life after receiving proper treatment for her sleep disorder. Despite having a mild form of upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS), her symptoms disappeared and she regained her energy and ability to function normally. This case highlights the transformative power of sleep medicine. 00:23:04 - Non-Medication Strategies for Improved Sleep, The guest suggests various non-medication strategies for individuals who heavily rely on sleeping pills. He emphasizes the importance of addressing sleep quality and exploring potential breathing issues. Simple interventions like nasal saline drops or nasal strips can significantly improve sleep. Dental devices and surgeries may also be options for those with specific conditions. 00:25:45 - Finding the Right Sleep Center, The guest acknowledges the challenges in finding a sleep center that provides comprehensive care. He advises individuals to ask specific questions when contacting a sleep center, such as whether they treat upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) and whether they use Bi level devices instead of CPAP. Being informed and advocating for oneself is crucial in navigating the sleep medicine field. 00:32:17 - The Impact of Nightmares and Insomnia in Adolescents Nightmares and insomnia are common problems in adolescents, especially during the teenage years. Nightmares can be a red flag for anxiety, depression, and trauma, while insomnia can have a significant impact on sleep quality. Therapists who specialize in treating nightmares and insomnia can help adolescents overcome these issues. 00:34:09 - Nonpharmacological Treatments for Nightmares and Insomnia Imagery Rehearsal Therapy is a leading nonpharmacological treatment for chronic nightmares, but it is not widely known or practiced. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for insomnia is another specialized program that can help individuals improve their sleep quality. Both therapies focus on changing behaviors and patterns associated with sleep. 00:35:16 - Changing Perspectives on Sleep Two important paradigms to consider when addressing insomnia are stopping clockwatching and understanding the difference between feeling sleepy and feeling tired. Clockwatching can worsen insomnia, while recognizing the feeling of sleepiness and only getting into bed when feeling that way can improve sleep quality. 00:38:05 - Finding Therapists for Treating Insomnia and Nightmares Therapists who specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for insomnia can be found through sleep centers or online programs. However, finding therapists who practice Imagery Rehearsal Therapy may be more challenging. Military sleep centers often have mental health professionals trained in IRT due to the high prevalence of PTSD and nightmares among military personnel. 00:48:02 - Gratitude for Sleep Expert, The host expresses gratitude for Dr. Krakow, an expert on sleep who has been working in the field for over 30 years. She encourages listeners to check out his resources and share them with others who may be struggling with sleep. 00:48:24 - Making a Difference in Lives, The host emphasizes the goal of the podcast, which is to make a difference in the lives of listeners. She encourages them to share the episode with anyone who could benefit from learning about sleep and mentions the exclusive content available in the Difference Maker community. 00:48:40 - Unique Research and Profession, The host expresses gratitude for Dr. Krakow's unique research and profession in the field of sleep. She highlights the valuable information she has already learned from him and hopes that listeners will also find his insights helpful for improving their sleep and the sleep of their families. 00:49:20 - Join the Difference Maker Community, The host invites listeners to join the Difference Maker community for extra content with Dr. Krakow and other experts. She emphasizes the importance of sleep and encourages everyone to spread the news about how to sleep better by sharing the episode with others. 00:49:35 - Farewell and Gratitude, The host concludes the episode by thanking listeners and bidding farewell. She encourages everyone to have a great day and to continue making a difference in the world. When you treat somebody's sleep disorder, not only do they sleep better, but their mental health improves. Patients have been walking into doctors' offices for decades saying, 'Doctor, if you can fix my sleep problem, my depression is going to get better.' - Barry Krakow Emphasize the importance of addressing sleep quality Maintaining quality sleep is essential for both physical and mental health. It's an area that often gets overlooked, but poor sleep quality can result in deteriorating mental health conditions and reduced alertness during the day. Therefore, prioritizing sleep quality by seeking professional help when needed and implementing beneficial habits can dramatically improve overall well-being. Become a Difference Maker and enjoy exclusive content. Join our exclusive membership club for as little as $5 USD/month at Difference Makers. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Experience the power of overcoming pain and discovering purpose through Angela’s inspiring journey. "It's not about the stuff, and it's not about all these luxury things. People spend $5 million on a wedding, and I'm like, it's the most important day of their life until it's not right." Angela Proffitt is a productivity expert, podcast host, celebrity wedding and event planner, speaker, and author. She has been working for over two decades to help CEO's, executives, entrepreneurs, and solopreneurs grow their company brand. Angela Proffitt was a child who struggled with dyslexia and who dreamed of being a nurse, but instead found her passion in the wedding and events industry. After graduating college with a Psychology degree, she experienced a deep pain point when her computer crashed and she lost all her work. This experience led her to be the first on board with any new technological advances, and her deep understanding of technology has allowed her to create a successful career. Angela now uses her experiences to help other entrepreneurs and encourages them to take risks and learn from their mistakes. Through her hard work and dedication, Angela is an example of how to turn pain into purpose. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How Angela Proffitt survived a disastrous computer crash three days before college graduation. 2. How Angela Proffitt used her experience in psychology and healthcare to develop innovative tech solutions. 3. How Angela Proffitt uses her experience to teach about the power of the Apple product range for productivity. Resources: True Colors Personality Test: https://www.idrlabs.com/true-colors/test.php Other episodes you'll enjoy: Jake Sasseville: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/s7e116 Doni Aldine: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/s8e124 Dele Kooley: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/s7e119 Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Website: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: {LINK} Chapter Summaries: [00:00:02] Angela Proffitt, founder of GSD Creative, is a productivity expert. She travels the world helping CEO, executives, entrepreneurs, and solopreneurs grow their company brand. Happy Women's History Month to everyone today. [00:00:59] Angela Proffitt is the host of the World of Difference podcast. She will be appearing at Pod Fest in Orlando, Florida. Hear more about Angela Proffitt here. [00:01:36] The entrepreneur got her start in the wedding and events industry. She graduated with a degree in psychology and worked in a mental hospital and an AIDS clinic. As she got older, she realized she needed an end date to her career. [00:07:56] Every company and every big thing that I end up being a part of comes from a really deep pain point. Three days before college graduation, my computer crashed and I lost everything. So everything that I talk about, everything I teach, every company I'm part of come from a pain. [00:14:57] I moved to Apple products from PC products because I kept getting viruses. There is so much unlocked potential just from a productivity standpoint in the iPhone. It's about the people. That's the most important thing. Be present. [00:20:12] The psychologist lost one of his clients recently. He says he's had all his notifications turned off since the night that happened. He made a video about Kyle Jacobs and posted it last night. He has his theory of what happened but nothing has been released. [00:26:17] I think you are making a difference by working on yourself and also helping others have tools and productivity. How can you motivate any of your team to be productive when you are a mess personally, with your health? It's the people all along the way that make the difference and make it worth. [00:30:45] The author is dyslexic and severely ADHD. She wants great, perfect customer service. If you have a business, it's essential to communicate based on personality. She takes note of lacking company, culture, things like this that are missing. [00:35:13] Enneagram, strength. Finders Myers Briggs, which, by the way, he works with the Myers Briggs mother daughter for this. When you don't know how to unleash the power of your people based on the way their brain is naturally wired, you're missing out. [00:40:08] A lot of people get married when they're young. You can't get married till you're at least 30. The Golds take care of the oranges like crazy erratic behavior. When you start to recognize how the strengths of someone else can actually help you, then annoy you, your life will change. [00:45:42] Angela: Zoom Kova changed a lot, but without this little tool, I don't know who I would be. Where's the main place you want people to go to to find you? Angelaprophet. com. Take care today, Angela. [00:50:08] A few days after we interviewed Angela, her family lost their beloved dog. She says it's important to listen and sit with people in their grief. If you're experiencing grief of any kind right now, please reach out to us in our patreon community. [00:54:28] Next week we have a special guest coming on, my friend Angela McKinney. Tim will be talking about her recent visit to the Supreme Court for the Era. We'll also be in Abu Dhabi for International Women's Day. Lots to talk about next week. Angela Proffitt shares about her entrepreneurship journey, her grief after a recent loss, and how knowing people deeply brings happiness and business growth. Celebrity Wedding & Event Planner | Podcast Host | Time Management Consultant | Speaker | Author Angela Proffitt, Founder of GSD Creative, is a productivity expert, podcast host, celebrity wedding & event planner, speaker and author that travels the world, helping CEO’s, executives, entrepreneurs, and solopreneurs grow their company brand. As a serial entrepreneur Angela has spent over two decades mastering effective business processes and consulting for multimillion-dollar brands. Angela knows what drives conversions, sold-out events, and consumer engagement - and it’s not the fluff. It is Angela’s background in psychology, her effective communication techniques, and the “Get Shit Done” attitude that helps drive success. Angela has been featured in media and publications that include: TLC, ABC Family, People’s Magazine, Success Magazine and US Weekly, to name a few. In addition to running multiple businesses, Angela has served on the board of the Entrepreneur’s Organization - Nashville, as social chair, MyEO chair, mentorship chair, and marketing chair at the regional level. Since 2017 she has been the host of Business Unveiled; a podcast for the hospitality industry, taking you behind the scenes of running a creative business. When Angela is not working, you can find her TikTok’ing with her nieces and nephew and learning about the latest advancements in Apple technology. ANGELAPROFFITT.COM https://www.tiktok.com/@angelaproffitt_ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwdB7cvwDh9BKAmDSzc_RYQ https://www.instagram.com/angelaproffitt/ https://www.facebook.com/AngelaProffittLLC/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gsdleader/ Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lori Adams-Brown guides us through the challenging yet empowering process of embracing change, exploring the power of self-compassion, and finding ways to stay in control in order to flourish. Lori Adams-Brown is a third culture kid and experienced change manager who has learned to cope with change through self-compassion, focusing on what she can control, staying flexible and adaptable, and practicing self-care. Lori Adams-Brown guides us through the challenging yet empowering process of embracing change, exploring the power of self-compassion and finding ways to stay in control in order to flourish. "Maya Angelou said, 'If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude.'" Lori Adams-Brown is a third culture kid and experienced change manager who has learned to cope with change through self-compassion, focusing on what she can control, staying flexible and adaptable, and practicing self-care. Lori Adams-Brown learned first-hand the difficulty of change. From being a third culture kid and having to move schools, to welcoming three new children into her home, change was a part of her life. She taught herself to pay attention to her emotions, to focus on the parts of change she could control, to stay flexible, and to prioritize self care. Through these practices, she was able to cope with change in her life and find the beauty in it. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How to cope with change from an in-depth personal perspective. 2. What strategies can be used to cope with change? 3. How can self-care help with dealing with transitions in life? Resources: A list of people thank Other episodes you'll enjoy: Dele Downs Kooley on repatriation and career change Karen González on helpful changes for immigrants Dr. Debbie Pinkston on therapy, self-care and wellbeing Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Website: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here. Chapter Summaries: [00:00:02] Welcome to the A World of Difference podcast. Today we're talking about change. We're going to talk about why change is something we must face, both good and bad. And I would love to hear back from you on your perspective and your thoughts around change. [00:01:30] How can we change our attitude about change? I welcomed the change of welcoming into our home each of our three children. Change in my life has been one of the best decisions I ever made. An exclusive interview with each of you who are our patrons, the Patreon supporters, where I'll dig into how I coped through some of the biggest changes. [00:04:08] Change was a part of my life growing up quite a bit, moving to new schools. I've had to learn a lot about change management and different leadership styles. Every work culture, every organizational culture has a different way of handling change. It has to be managed well. [00:06:43] Change is an inevitable part of life. Here are five ways to cope with change. Pay attention to your emotions. Focus on the parts of the change that you can control. Allow yourself to feel through them with a lot of self-compassion. [00:14:15] The fourth thing I would say is it's really important to have a practice of caring for yourself. So practicing self-care when change happens. It's so important to practice and prioritize self-care, especially in terms of transition. [00:25:05] In the realm of support is also seeking professional help from a therapist or a counselor. Remember, though, that coping with change is not an overnight thing. It takes time. [00:29:50] If you would like to be a part of a community, we have a Patreon community where I would love to discuss this. You can join for as little as $5 a month. I'm going to be releasing an exclusive episode around this concept of change. Let us know how you're doing and how change is happening for you. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you want to see a positive shift within religious communities, addressing the damaging effects of abuse? Are you eager to create change and raise awareness within faith communities? Join us as we welcome guest Sarah Stankorb, who will share the solution to achieving increased awareness and action in addressing abuse within religious contexts. Together, let's work towards a transformative outcome, where the harmful effects of abuse within faith communities are recognized and addressed. My special guest is Sarah Stankorb Sarah Stankorb is not just a journalist; she's an advocate for the unseen and unheard. Her remarkable talent transcends reporting, establishing her as a genuine voice of change within society. Her work resonates with empathy - sketching heart-touching narratives in renowned publications such as The Washington Post and New York Times. In her latest book, 'Disobedient Women', Sarah unveils the deeply haunting experiences of abuse suffered within faith communities. This isn't the limit of her prowess - with qualifications from the University of Chicago's Divinity School and Westminster College, Sarah brings an enriched, well-rounded perspective to her work. Her compassion and zeal The online reckoning has brought together a community of wounded survivors, revealing the commonality of their experiences and the need for healing and reform within faith communities. - Sarah StankorbIn this episode, you will be able to: Peel back the taboos surrounding exploitation hidden in the folds of religion. Contemplate the societal constructs that endorse gender limitations within evangelical communities. Recognize the long-term impact of abuse masked in the garb of spiritual beliefs. Appreciate the role of online platforms in forging a solidarity among survivors of abuse. Galvanize the need to uplift silenced voices of women, a vital step for inclusive religious spaces. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Pre-order Sarah Stankorb's new book, Disobedient Women: How a Small Group of Faithful Women Exposed Abuse, Brought Down Powerful Pastors, and Started an Evangelical Reckoning on her website or through major online book retailers. Follow Sarah Stankorb on social media (Twitter, Instagram, Threads) for updates on her book release and other writings. Read Sarah Stankorb's articles and essays on women's issues, faith, and culture in publications like the Washington Post, New York Times, Vogue, Marie Claire, Glamour, and O Magazine. Explore Sarah Stankorb's previous works, including her award-winning article Rape Culture Lives Here. Support the Society of Professional Journalists and the Religion News Association, of which Sarah Stankorb is a member. Consider studying ethics, religion, history, or philosophy at the University of Chicago's Divinity School or Westminster College, where Sarah Stankorb graduated with honors. Reflect on the impact of silencing and the importance of using your voice, inspired by Sarah Stankorb's personal experience with a vocal disorder. Challenge toxic theology and harmful narratives It's long overdue to recognize women in this way that have been trailblazing reform in these faith-based environments. - Sarah Stankorb The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction, 00:01:22 - Sarah Stankorb's Background, 00:03:00 - Unique Perspective on Religion, 00:06:04 - Personal Experience of Silencing, 00:10:09 - Birth of a Counter Movement, 00:13:58 - Damage to Women in Evangelical Worlds, 00:18:51 - The Intensity of Abuse Paired with Faith, 00:22:31 - The Impact of Spiritual Abuse, 00:26:13 - The Online Reckoning and #MeToo, 00:30:20 - The Revelation of Widespread Abuse, 00:37:36 - The Impact of Silencing Women, 00:38:44 - Lack of Attention to Women Leaving the Church, 00:41:10 - Reasons for the Lack of Attention, 00:42:12 - Ignoring the Issue in Megachurches, 00:53:44 - DBT Therapy and Moving Forward, 00:54:10 - Being a Part of Change, 00:54:45 - Gratitude and Appreciation, 00:55:30 - Crucial Time in the History of the Church, 00:56:10 - Strength in Community, Unmasking spiritual maltreatment within faith communities. The podcast accentuates the worsening impact of abuse once it becomes intertwined with faith. Victims don't face just physical or emotional trauma, but also spiritual distress as their belief systems get manipulated. This unique form of trauma is often neglected and needs equal recognition as other forms of mistreatment There's a power in women's stories, in elevating their voices and shedding light on the abuse and marginalization they've experienced. - Sarah Stankorb Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:02 - Introduction, Lori Adams Brown introduces the podcast and guest Sarah Stankorb, highlighting her new book "Disobedient Women" and her work reporting on women's issues, particularly within evangelical communities. 00:01:22 - Sarah Stankorb's Background, Sarah Stankorb's extensive background as a journalist and her passion for elevating the voices of those who have been discarded, abused, and marginalized. She discusses her personal experience with being silenced and how it has influenced her work. 00:03:00 - Unique Perspective on Religion, Sarah Stankorb shares her unique perspective as an agnostic who loves talking to people about religion. She is drawn to people with different worldviews and uses writing to amplify their voices. 00:06:04 - Personal Experience of Silencing, Sarah Stankorb discusses her vocal disorder and the early treatments that silenced her. She reflects on the importance of using her voice and helping others amplify their voices through her writing. 00:10:09 - Birth of a Counter Movement, Sarah Stankorb discusses her coverage of women questioning and calling out Christian patriarchy within evangelical communities. She realizes the deeper connection between these women's experiences and the rise of white Christian evangelical nationalism, particularly after the events of January 6th. 00:13:58 - Damage to Women in Evangelical Worlds, Sarah Stankorb highlights the damage caused to women within evangelical communities, including the pressure to conform to a 00:18:51 - The Intensity of Abuse Paired with Faith, The discussion explores the unique intensity of abuse when it is paired with faith. The concept of abuse being within one's worldview and sanctioned by God adds an extra layer of damage and control. Spiritual abuse can be especially damaging as survivors not only have to recover from the abuse itself but also from the betrayal of their faith. 00:22:31 - The Impact of Spiritual Abuse, The conversation delves into the profound impact of spiritual abuse, particularly in the context of faith communities. It is noted that spiritual abuse is often the hardest part to heal from and can involve emotional, verbal, psychological, and financial abuse. The discussion highlights the difficulty of speaking out against abusers who are idolized within religious communities. 00:26:13 - The Online Reckoning and #MeToo, The power of the online reckoning, exemplified by the #MeToo and #ChurchToo movements, is discussed. Online platforms have provided a space for survivors to realize their wounds are not solitary, but rather part of a larger community. This collective awareness has exposed systemic problems within institutions and has the potential to drive reform. 00:30:20 - The Revelation of Widespread Abuse, The conversation explores how the internet has revealed the pervasiveness of abuse within various communities. Survivors connecting online have realized that their experiences are not isolated incidents but part of a larger systemic issue. This revelation can be both painful and empowering, leading to a loss of trust in institutions and a call for reform. 00:37:36 - The Impact of Silencing Women, Silencing women and calling them disobedient when they don't follow man-made rules leads to toxicity in communities. Women have traditionally played a significant role in religious spaces, but they are now leaving in large numbers, signaling a potential decline in faith. This trend should be a cause for concern and addressed in churches. 00:38:44 - Lack of Attention to Women Leaving the Church, The departure of women from the church has been a personal obsession for the guest for many years. Despite the significant number of women leaving, there has been a lack of attention and willingness to address this issue. Women's departure means losing a connection to the next generation of believers and the essential glue that holds the community together. 00:41:10 - Reasons for the Lack of Attention, The guest is unsure why there is little concern about the departure of women from the church. It could be because some view the departing women as irritating or critical, or it may simply be a lack of care. However, the decline of women in the church should be a cause for panic, not indifference. 00:42:12 - Ignoring the Issue in Megachurches, The guest shares her experience of trying to bring up the issue of people leaving the church in a megachurch but being shut down. Some megachurch pastors may avoid addressing this issue because it raises uncomfortable questions about their success and whether they have received God's favor. 00:53:44 - DBT Therapy and Moving Forward, The host encourages the use of DBT therapy alongside the discussion to provide comfort during difficult topics. She emphasizes the importance of not turning a blind eye and creating a safe space for future generations. 00:54:10 - Being a Part of Change, The host emphasizes that we have a chance to not be complicit and to actively participate in creating positive change. She invites listeners to join their voices and differences to make a difference together. 00:54:45 - Gratitude and Appreciation, The host expresses gratitude for the listeners and their willingness to sit with the pain and suffering, as well as for their support in finding a way forward. She encourages listeners to join the Patreon community for more in-depth discussions. 00:55:30 - Crucial Time in the History of the Church, The conversation highlights the significance of the current time in the history of the Church. It encourages those within the Church and those outside of it to come together and help create positive change. 00:56:10 - Strength in Community, The host uses the analogy of redwood trees linking their roots underground to emphasize the strength and resilience that comes from community. It encourages listeners to stand together and support each other through difficult times. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite being faced with the hardships of COVID-19 and the uncertainty of her future, Melissa Hughes never expected that a simple video of her kids' sledding would spark an unexpected journey of spreading hope and connection to millions of people. How did Melissa's simple act of sharing her story lead her to such an extraordinary journey? In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Discover Melissa Hughes' unexpected path to TikTok stardom and the lessons she learned along the way. 2. Navigate the hurdles and culture shock of living abroad with resilience and adaptability. 3. Embrace vulnerability and faith in times of adversity to foster personal growth. 4. Utilize social media as a powerful tool to create connections and fight loneliness. 5. Delve into diverse religious perspectives and traditions during Holy Week for a richer understanding. My special guest is Melissa Hughes. If you're feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and disheartened by your attempts to connect and create meaningful relationships, then you are not alone! Have you heard the myths that social media has no positive impact, or that it can actually increase loneliness? Or that it is impossible to use social media responsibly? Parents who seek connection and inspiration, don't miss out on this opportunity to hear the truth from Melissa Hughes about harnessing social media for positive impact and combating loneliness. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:03:39 - Accidentally Going Viral on TikTok, 00:05:54 - Coping with Culture Shock, 00:11:08 - Coping with Unexpected Challenges 00:13:55 - Wrestling with Faith 00:15:20 - Faith and Testing, 00:16:37 - Nashville School Shooting 00:21:38 - God and Suffering, 00:25:13 - Walking Through Suffering, 00:27:04 - Using TikTok for Good, 00:30:30 - Using social media for good, 00:32:55 - Engaging with followers, 00:36:19 - Overcoming mental hurdles, 00:41:01 - Traditions and teaching kids, 00:43:23 - Holding lament and positivity, 00:46:12 - Welcome and Invitation, 00:47:24 - Commemorating Holy Week, 00:48:16 - Exclusive Patreon Episode, 00:49:37 - Invitation to Patreon, 00:50:08 - Closing Remarks, Coping with Unexpected Challenges Life can often present unexpected challenges, and it's crucial to learn how to cope with these situations. Developing resilience and adaptability can help individuals navigate challenging times more effectively. Embracing vulnerability, accepting one's emotions, and finding support from others can go a long way in overcoming adversity. By understanding that setbacks and hardships are a part of life and can often be the catalyst for personal growth, individuals can move forward with an optimistic and empowered mindset. In the discussion with Melissa Hughes, she shares her personal experience of coping with adversity during her time living abroad in the UK with her family. Facing challenges such as a car accident, adjusting to a new culture, and trying to maintain her faith amidst difficulties, Melissa highlights the importance of giving oneself permission to feel a wide range of emotions and seek support. Through these experiences, Melissa ultimately grows stronger and more confident in her ability to navigate life's challenges."Mountaintop experiences are for sights and inspiration, but the fruit grows in the valleys." - Melissa Hughes "Create content that sets your soul on fire." - Melissa Hughes "I feel like Jesus would be on TikTok. He'd be praying for people through the screen." - Melissa Hughes Melissa Hughes is a TikTok influencer, international speaker, and best-selling author. She has been booked twice on The Kelly Clarkson Show and featured for the New York Times Best Seller “Primal Scream” on NBC. She has over 240,000 followers on TikTok with over 11 million likes. She is also a best-selling author of the book She Can Laugh along with a children’s book called, “Mommy Loves You When”. She has also done missionary work in the UK for several years with her husband and two children. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover Melissa Hughes' unexpected path to TikTok stardom and the lessons she learned along the way. Navigate the hurdles and culture shock of living abroad with resilience and adaptability. Embrace vulnerability and faith in times of adversity to foster personal growth. Utilize social media as a powerful tool to create connections and fight loneliness. Delve into diverse religious perspectives and traditions during Holy Week for a richer understanding. God and Suffering The question of why suffering exists and how it relates to one's faith in God is a deeply complex and personal issue for many. Understanding that suffering can lead to personal growth and finding solace in knowing that God is compassionate and supportive through difficult times can bring a sense of peace and help individuals navigate their experiences. During her conversation with Lori Adams-Brown, Melissa Hughes reflects on her experience with suffering and the impact on her faith. Melissa discusses a passage from the book of James that helped her realize that God is present during times of suffering, and He is big enough to help her through her struggles. Melissa's story of grappling with the issue of God and suffering offers insight and encouragement to others on their journey to make sense of their own experiences. Wrestling with Faith Faith can be a great source of comfort and guidance, but it can also be the source of doubt or uncertainty. Struggling with one's faith is normal, and questioning one's beliefs can often lead to a deeper relationship with one's spirituality. It's essential to be honest with oneself and explore these thoughts and feelings, as this can help individuals find meaning and direction in their spiritual journey. Melissa Hughes shares her experience of wrestling with her faith, particularly during challenging times. She openly discusses the doubts and questions she faced and how it felt like she was betraying God by doubting Him. Melissa's honesty and vulnerability highlight the importance of remaining true to oneself and being willing to ask difficult questions on one's faith journey, even if the answers aren't immediately clear. Using TikTok for Good TikTok is a popular social media platform that has the potential for making a positive impact on people's lives when used responsibly and thoughtfully. Creators have the opportunity to connect with a wide audience, share ideas, and spread positivity. By focusing on creating content that is authentic, relatable, and meaningful, individuals can utilize this platform successfully to make a difference. Melissa Hughes's experience as a TikTok influencer, with over 240,000 followers on the platform, demonstrates how the platform can be utilized for good. Initially sharing content related to motherhood, Melissa now strives to inspire and uplift moms, in particular, mompreneurs, by helping them find joy and energy in their daily lives. Melissa emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, creating content that speaks to one's passions, and focusing on making a positive impact. Find Melissa on: TikTok: @Mhughes79 https://linktr.ee/melissaleahughes For those who are different and want to make a difference ***** Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, author Zachary Wagner recounts his personal journey and explores the irony of the purity culture movement in the white American evangelical subculture, highlighting the need for men to join the conversation about sexual violence and misconduct in church spaces. In this episode, you will be able to: Identify the repercussions of toxic masculinity within the Church and initiate constructive conversations. Confront the issues of power abuse and spiritual maltreatment, promoting healthier religious communities. Recognize the impact of cultural norms and pornography on men's behaviors and attitudes. Advocate for the inclusion of women's input in discussions about harmful male stereotypes. Prioritize personal well-being and self-care in pursuit of a mentally and emotionally fulfilling journey. My special guest is Zachary Wagner Introducing Zachary Wagner- a writer, researcher, ordained minister––thinker of thoughts and feeler of feelings. Originally from the Chicagoland area, he now lives in Oxford, England, where he is pursuing a DPhil (PhD) in New Testament studies at Keble College, University of Oxford. He also serves as the editorial director of the Center for Pastor Theologians, where he co-hosts the CPT Podcast. His research interests include economics in the ancient world, divine wages in Second Temple Judaism and early Christianity, Pauline epistles, the Gospel of Matthew, and New Testament masculinities. His first book, Non-Toxic Masculinity: Recovering Healthy Male Sexuality, was published in 2023 with Intervarsity Press. Zach’s other writing interests include evangelical and “post-vangelical” Christian discipleship, theological formation, and speaking against church-based abuse. Follow Zachary on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/zacharycwagner The resources mentioned in this episode are: Purchase Nontoxic Masculinity: Recovering Healthy Male Sexuality by Zachary Wagner. Check out the Center for Pastor Theologians and listen to their podcast. Follow Zachary Wagner on social media for more updates and insights. Read more about the #ChurchToo movement and the #MToo movement to stay informed and educated. Consider seeking therapy or counseling if you have experienced trauma or shame related to sexuality. Speak out against toxic masculinity and actively work to promote healthy and respectful attitudes towards all genders. Support organizations and initiatives that work towards ending sexual violence and abuse, both in and outside of religious spaces. Pornography and Its Effects Zachary Wagner addresses the impact pornography has on male attitudes and behaviors surrounding sexuality. He notes that this cultural force often influences the formation of compulsive habits and promotes immature expressions of sexuality. Wagner also discusses the male brain's interaction with pornography, potentially shaping attitudes towards women even without direct exposure to explicit content. He encourages men to rethink their sexual responses and move away from the harmful effects of pornography. Instead, he urges them to adopt more humanizing and mature ways of engaging with their sexuality, demonstrating respect and understanding for themselves and others. By doing so, we can foster healthier relationships and a society where individuals are not subjected to the harmful consequences of toxic masculinity. Harmful Effects of Toxic Masculinity Toxic masculinity is a prevailing issue with far-reaching consequences beyond perpetuating negative male stereotypes. It has harmful effects on both men and women, hindering the formation of healthy relationships and contributing to a culture of abuse and violence. When discussing his personal experiences growing up within white American evangelical subculture, Zachary Wagner sheds light on the shame he felt surrounding sexuality, exacerbated by his wife's experiences of childhood sexual abuse. Wagner believes that while sexual abuse is not a recent phenomenon, the increasing awareness of its prevalence is noteworthy. For change to happen, it is vital for men to actively engage in conversations about toxic masculinity and to take responsibility in finding solutions to the problem. He calls for an effort to break free from the distorted images of manhood and gender that have persisted for so long. Toxic Masculinity in Megachurches The discussion highlights the connection between toxic masculinity and megachurches in the United States. These churches often prioritize pragmatism, measuring success in terms of numbers and financial gains, which can contravene genuine spiritual growth. This culture of accomplishment can lead to the elevation of people with serious character flaws, propagating an alpha male, CEO-like mentality for pastoral ministry. Zachary Wagner asserts that the fruit of such churches often focuses on external metrics rather than on spiritual outcomes and long-term growth potential. Wagner argues that addressing toxic masculinity within these environments is essential for creating a more welcoming and supportive space for all congregants. By reevaluating their approaches to leadership and power dynamics, megachurches can foster a better culture within their communities, reducing the detrimental impact of toxic masculinity. When abusers are given a pass and often the pass is associated with their maleness in that this is the vision of maleness. "The fact that a certain form of unhealthy masculine sexuality has found a foothold in these communities of faith is really, really not okay. And women seem to be talking about this plenty, but not enough men are engaging in the conversation." - Zachary Wagner "Until men engage in the conversation, I fear this is just going to keep happening. We'll just be playing catch up and clean up to whatever the next scandal that reveals itself is and not really addressing the problem at its root." - Zachary Wagner The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:01 - Introduction, 00:02:37 - Inspiration for Writing the Book, 00:12:29 - Wake Up, Guys, 00:16:30 - Dangerous Male Body-Centric Theology, 00:18:29 - Criticisms of Sexual Imagery in Christianity, 00:21:49 - Minimizing Abuse Hurts Everyone, 00:28:19 - Toxic Masculinity in Megachurches, 00:29:50 - Harmful Effects of Toxic Masculinity, 00:37:05 - Dehumanization of Women, 00:45:41 - Pornography and its Effects, 00:50:06 - Toxic Masculinity is not Exclusive to Christianity, 00:54:10 - Importance of Taking Care of Yourself, 00:54:49 - Thanks to the Community, 00:55:06 - Upcoming Guest, 00:56:16 - Different Translation of the New Testament, 00:56:52 - Catching Up with Dr. Scott McKnight, Zachary Wagner, a writer, researcher, and ordained minister, is here to share his thoughts on centering women's voices in conversations around toxic masculinity. Originally from Chicagoland, he now resides in Oxford, England, where he is pursuing a PhD in New Testament Studies. Zachary serves as the editorial director for the Center for Pastor Theologians and co-hosts the CPT podcast. His research interests include ancient economics, divine wages in Second Temple Judaism, early Christianity, and New Testament masculinities. A passionate advocate against church-based abuse, Zachary recently authored Nontoxic Masculinity: Recovering Healthy Male Sexuality. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:01 - Introduction, Lori Adams-Brown introduces Zachary Wagner, the writer, researcher, and ordained minister who has written a book titled Nontoxic Masculinity: Recovering Healthy Male Sexuality. The episode is centered around the topic of toxic masculinity and its impact in the evangelical church. 00:02:37 - Inspiration for Writing the Book, Zachary Wagner talks about his inspiration for writing the book. He shares how his personal experiences growing up in the white American evangelical subculture that promoted purity culture, and his own struggles with pornography and shame, as well as his wife's experience with church-based sexual abuse, motivated him to address the problem of toxic masculinity in the church. 00:12:29 - Wake Up, Guys, Zachary Wagner discusses the church's long-standing problem with sexual abuse and misconduct against women and children. He emphasizes the need for men to take responsibility and join the conversation to address the problem of toxic masculinity in the church, which often stems from a sub-Christian and dehumanizing vision of what it means to be a man. 00:16:30 - Dangerous Male Body-Centric Theology, Zachary Wagner comments on the recent controversy surrounding an article that compared the gospel to sexual assault and marital rape. He clarifies that the text it was based on, Ephesians Five, is very careful in what it does and does not say about the relationship between Christ and the Church and the relationship between husband and wife. He warns against a dangerous male body-centric theology and the need for a more holistic and 00:18:29 - Criticisms of Sexual Imagery in Christianity, Zachary Wagner discusses the use of sexual imagery in Christianity and highlights the potential theological criticisms. He emphasizes that in the current cultural climate, it is unwise to use such imagery. Wagner also draws comparisons to pagan sex cults and Greco-Roman values regarding masculinity. 00:21:49 - Minimizing Abuse Hurts Everyone, Wagner reflects on the harms of minimizing abuse, particularly in the context of male-centered theology and toxic masculinity. He stresses the importance of men speaking up when they see women being harmed or rhetoric that perpetuates harmful ideologies. Wagner argues that when abusers are not held accountable, both the victim and the abuser suffer. 00:28:19 - Toxic Masculinity in Megachurches, The conversation turns to the prevalence of toxic masculinity in megachurches and evangelicalism in America. Wagner argues that many have wedded themselves to cultural pragmatist ideals about results and numbers, leading to a certain type of masculine, macho, alpha-male CEO vision for pastoral ministry. He notes that this has led to elevating leaders with serious character deficiencies and neglecting the spiritual outcomes for congregants. 00:29:50 - Harmful Effects of Toxic Masculinity, The discussion centers on the harmful effects of toxic masculinity, particularly in evangelicalism in America. Wagner notes that the focus on toxic masculinity has led to abuse in many instances, both for men and women. He argues that it is critical to shift the focus towards a kind 00:37:05 - Dehumanization of Women, Toxic masculinity leads to dehumanization of women, objectification of female bodies, and a harmful culture of male sexualization. The book, Every Man's Battle, popularized the idea that men have a hyper-sexualized lens through which they view the world, leading to the objectification of women. As a result, women are often questioned, not believed, and placed on trial when men's sexuality goes awry. Pornography use reinforces these negative attitudes towards women and trains men's sexual response cycles, even years after they stop watching it. 00:45:41 - Pornography and its Effects, Pornography is one of the most powerful cultural forces in shaping men's toxic attitudes and behaviors towards their sexuality. Many Christian communities stigmatize and pathologize pornography, leading to cycles of lying and deception by men who use it. Even men who no longer watch pornography may still be shaped by it and have their brains and bodies interact with women in toxic ways. The book encourages all men to think deeply about how pornography has shaped their sexuality and to find a more healthy and mature expression of it. 00:50:06 - Toxic Masculinity is not Exclusive to Christianity, Toxic masculinity is not a concept exclusive to Christianity, but something that affects all people, regardless of faith. Women are often excluded from spaces where men coalesce unhealthy perspectives and approaches to certain issues and problems. This hyper-sexualized vision of male minds and attitude of fear directed towards female bodies creates a system where women are not heard or believed. The book encourages men 00:54:10 - Importance of Taking Care of Yourself, Taking care of yourself is not only beneficial for your own well-being, but it also sets an example for others to follow. It's important to make time for self-care, such as eating, drinking, resting, and taking breaks from daily routines. 00:54:49 - Thanks to the Community, The host expresses gratitude towards the community and acknowledges the difference it has made in her life. She encourages everyone to continue making a difference in their own way. 00:55:06 - Upcoming Guest, Dr. Scott McKnight will be the next guest on the podcast. He will be discussing his upcoming book, the Second Testament, which includes a unique translation of the New Testament. He also talks about spiritual abuse and advocacy for survivors. 00:56:16 - Different Translation of the New Testament, The Second Testament provides a different translation of the New Testament, which may challenge readers' preconceived notions of familiar Bible characters. Dr. Scott McKnight will explain some of the changes he made and discuss the concept of dynamic equivalence in translation. 00:56:52 - Catching Up with Dr. Scott McKnight, The conversation with Dr. Scott McKnight will also touch on his advocacy for survivors of spiritual abuse. He will share his insights and what he has learned since writing his book, A Church Called Tove. Purchase Nontoxic Masculinity: Recovering Healthy Male Sexuality by Zachary Wagner. Check out the Center for Pastor Theologians and listen to their podcast. Follow Zachary Wagner on social media for more updates and insights. Read more about the Church Two movement and the MeToo movement to stay informed and educated. Consider seeking therapy or counseling if you have experienced trauma or shame related to sexuality. Speak out against toxic masculinity and actively work to promote healthy and respectful attitudes towards all genders. Support organizations and initiatives that work towards ending sexual violence and abuse, both in and outside of religious spaces. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Mekdes Haddis is a sought after Millennial African Missiologist and thought leader whose voice is challenging the Church to undo its “missions as usual” ethos. Her work is a clarion call to redefine missions from charity giving to disciple making and justice seeking. In 2020 Mekdes created an online community “Just Missions” with the purpose of helping missionaries, receivers of missionaries and ministry leaders engage with one another on an open platform and discuss the harmful effects of western missions. The group gives westerners the chance to hear from the receivers of missions without the financial power dynamic that typically robs them from openly discussing the truth. Her hope is that these conversations will lead to a wholesome method of supporting and equipping local churches and their leaders without the focus being on the one who is sent but rather the ones God wants them to reach.   Mekdes Haddis is the founder and executive coach of Just Missions, an online community that elevates diaspora voices and equips Western allies to become mutual partners for the work of the gospel. Originally from Ethiopia, she moved to the United States in 2003 and earned a BS in communications from Liberty University and a master's degree in organizational leadership from Columbia International University. She is also the project director of the Racial Justice and Reconciliation Collaborative for the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE). Haddis has worked in several churches, building discipleship and outreach strategies that are holistic in their approach to include people on the margins. She and her family live in South Carolina. Her book is: A Just Mission: Laying Down Power and Embracing Mutuality. The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Martine Kalaw's compelling mission is to empower Human Resources professionals to make Diversity, Equity and Inclusion accessible in the workplace, but her journey as a stateless and undocumented survivor reveals the irony of empowering managers to support marginalized communities while also risking Tokenism. You will learn how to use team building activities and mental health support to help empower marginalized groups to reach their full potential. "It's not lip service when especially when you've got metrics and you also can identify the return on investment when we adjust those metrics and we improve the metrics." Martine Kalaw is a speaker, consultant, trainer and author with a decade of experience working with Fortune 500 companies and tech startups. She helps develop people and increase performance and productivity as a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant. Martine Kalaw, a stateless and undocumented survivor, grew up navigating through a number of different communities. As a result, she was able to gain an understanding of different perspectives, which inspired her to create her own enterprise, Martine Kalau Enterprises. Here, she focuses on making diversity, equity and inclusion more accessible in the workplace. Martine realized that those in marginalized communities often feel a deep loss of dignity and aloneness, so she encourages them to build a team of resources to help empower them. This team should include a mental health practitioner, a technical assistant, a mentor, an ally, and the right attorney. Through her work and her book, she focuses on providing resources for those in marginalized communities and upskilling managers to understand the power and influence they have in In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. What strategies can be used to make diversity, equity, and inclusion accessible in the workplace? 2. What is the importance of having a team of support to empower individuals in marginalized communities? 3. How can managers use their influence to create a sense of belonging and access in the workplace? Resources: [Insert links to any other lead magnets or Calls to Action from Guest here] Other episodes you'll enjoy: [Insert 3 past episodes with links] Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Website: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: {LINK} Chapter Summaries: [00:00:02] Our guest on today's show is Martine Kalaw. Martine is a speaker, a consultant, a trainer, and an author. She brings more than a decade of professional experience working with Fortune 500 companies and tech startups. She'll be speaking about leadership around diversity, equity, and inclusion with an emphasis on belonging. [00:01:45] Martine Kalaw was born in Zambia and his family is from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He spent seven years in removal proceedings, deportation proceedings. Now he's created Martine Kalaw Enterprises to support human resources professionals in making diversity, equity and inclusion accessible in the workplace. [00:06:03] The author has a book that provides more tools for individuals who are undocumented or stateless. She says the first thing is get a team. Second is having a technical assistant, a mentor, an ally. Third is having the right attorney who builds you up and is your advocate. [00:14:12] Dei: I felt like these conversations around diversity, equity and inclusion are going way over people's heads. The bridge is human resources and managers. Dei: The way that you make it accessible is through upskilling managers. [00:21:17] Martine: Why should companies do more than just appear inclusive? She says bottom line is really the compelling factor. To appeal to the market that you're trying to appeal to, you need a whole team. This really becomes a business imperative if your sales numbers are down. [00:29:05] LZ: How can we have companies and organizations that really create places of belonging at work? LZ: It really starts with human resources or the equivalent working with managers to incorporate that into their management development. Building of trust is what allows people to start to feel like they belong in the organization. [00:35:06] There are little things that we can do as managers to establish a sense of belonging. Consider this for many of us, we work at organizations that are global. And acknowledging those little things is part of building inclusion. It's certainly now where employee retention is causing us to have to rethink. [00:42:04] The World of Difference podcast is all about acknowledging the differences among us and bringing those to the table. People from different marginalized spaces experience different biases, different ways in the workplace. By asking a question, managers can start to acknowledge how each person is different. [00:47:32] We're about to head into Black History Month in the United States. Do you often find that people make assumptions about you, that your black history is kind of a particular way? And is that a conversation that's been challenging for you to navigate at all? [00:54:30] Start with compensation and equity and all of those things. That's much more powerful than these grander gestures. If we could make that go forward this year Black History Month, it would be a gift to all of us. [00:56:09] Martin: I found myself connecting with parts of Martin's story, even though I have not lived anything close to her life. Martin: It's important in the aspect of creating empathy, which is one of the strategies around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Please follow her writing and her work and reach out to her for consulting. [00:58:03] Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are real key to the attrition rate right now. Companies doing this well are doing a better job at retaining employees, making better decisions. Martine Kalaw can come in and consult with your organization to help you grow and do better. [00:59:30] Michael Fosberg will talk to us about his story where he was a 32 year old man who had been raised to believe he was white, and at 32 years old realized he is black. We're going to talk about the conversation of race as a social construct here during Black History Month. Martine Kalaw is the CEO and president of Martine Kalaw Enterprises, LLC; a consultancy focused on learning & development, human resources, and diversity, equity & inclusion for corporations, organizations, and nonprofits. She holds a Master’s in Public Administration focusing on immigration law from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School and has authored two books, Illegal Among Us: A Stateless Woman’s Quest for Citizenship and The ABCs of Diversity: A Managers Guide to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. As an organizational development expert, Martine has single-handedly built and executed onboarding solutions, management and leadership programs, global mentorship programs consisting of 400+ employees, and designed and customized training for Macy’s, Xaxis, Wheels Up, and Education First. Martine transforms the implicit biases of working professionals and leads “heavy” conversations related to race and legal status. She specifically focuses on unconscious beliefs towards blacks and immigrants through workshops and seminars while also equipping companies with training to up-skill new managers. Martine partners with global professionals to implement learning and workforce development strategies and solutions incorporating race and biases, manager training, and inter/intra department communication. Her soft skills curriculum is popular with late-stage startups experiencing pangs due to a merger, an acquisition, exponential growth, or a sudden reduction in business. A passionate DE&I consultant, Martine has written for publications like Huffington Post and has delivered a TEDx talk on immigration policies as they relate to equity and inclusion. She’s also appeared on C-span. Outside of her work, Martine contributes thought leadership around immigration reform. She’s spoken at Senator McCain’s 2006 Town Hall Rally on Immigration and the U.S. House of Representative’s Judiciary Subcommittee’s 2007 hearing on Immigration Reform. Her story has appeared in USA Today, Metro New York, and The New York Sun. Martine is also the founder and executive director of Stateless and Dreamers Foundation (SAD), which she created after her seven-year battle with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which eventually led to her U.S. citizenship. SAD provides guidance and practical tools that stateless persons and undocumented immigrants can use to navigate between lawyers and the courts more effectively. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join us on Patreon If you haven't joined us yet on Patreon, this is your official invitation to join us as we go deeper in the conversation. patreon.com/aworldofdifference This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling the weight of past trauma and struggling to heal, then you are not alone! The journey to healing from abuse and trauma is often filled with challenges, and finding the right tools to navigate this journey can be overwhelming. But what if there was a resource that could guide you through this process and help you cultivate well-being? In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the transformative power of therapy in healing from abuse and trauma and reclaiming your well-being. Uncover the impact of narcissism in church leadership and gain insights into navigating the complexities of this issue. Discover the invaluable benefits of professional mental health support and how it can positively impact your healing journey. Understand the profound connection between attachment issues and trauma recovery and how it influences your healing process. Embrace the role of self-regulation in effective leadership and learn how it can enhance your personal and professional growth. My special guest is Dr. Chuck DeGroat Chuck DeGroat is a professor of pastoral care and Christian spirituality at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan, where he also serves as the founding executive director of the clinical mental health counseling program. He is a licensed therapist, spiritual director, author, retreat leader speaker, and faculty member with the Soul Care Institute. As a therapist, he specializes in navigating issues of abuse and trauma, pastoral (and leadership) health, and doubt and dark nights on the faith journey. He trains clergy in handling issues of abuse and trauma, conducts pastor and planter assessments, and facilitates church consultations and investigations of abuse. Before transitioning to training and forming pastors, Chuck served as a pastor in Orlando and San Francisco. He and his wife, Sara, have been married for 30 years and have two adult daughters. Listen to our previous episode with Chuck DeGroat on EPS 42. The key moments in this episode are: 00:11:03 - Faux Vulnerability in Church Leadership 00:13:09 - Misuse of Self-Work for Immunity 00:13:40 - Dysfunctional Dynamics in Churches 00:14:58 - Toxic Leadership and Manipulation 00:19:06 - Nervous System Dysregulation 00:22:10 - Healing Attachment Wounds 00:25:52 - Transformation and Non-Anxious Presence 00:26:17 - Recognizing Patterns of Toxic Behavior 00:27:24 - Accountability and Systemic Change 00:29:15 - Rebuilding for the Future 00:30:49 - Understanding Shame Dynamics 00:35:15 - Rediscovering the Goodness of the Heart 00:39:20 - Men Doing Deeper Work 00:40:02 - Bullying and Women 00:41:15 - Complimenting Each Other's Work 00:41:39 - Encouraging Curiosity and Healing 00:42:42 - Embracing Curiosity and Healing 00:53:11 - Finding Healing and Freedom Trauma is not what happens to us, but what happens within. - Chuck DeGroat Pre-order Healing What's Within by Dr. Chuck DeGroat on his website chuckdegroat.net. Join the Launch Team. Join the Patreon community at www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference to access exclusive content, including additional insights from Dr. Chuck DeGroat. Explore additional resources recommended by Dr. Chuck DeGroat at the end of each chapter, such as Dan Allender's To Be Told: Know Your Story, Shape Your Life and Frederick Buechner's Telling Secrets. Engage in introspective and mindful practices to support your healing journey, such as deep breathing, visualization, EMDR and brainspotting. Gift Healing What's Within to friends or loved ones who could benefit from the valuable tools and insights shared in the book. Follow the podcast here: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest: Brenden Kumarasamy, Founder of MasterTalk, a YouTube channel dedicated to helping people master the art of public speaking. Introduction: In this episode, we have Brenden Kumarasamy, a public speaking coach, and founder of MasterTalk, a YouTube channel dedicated to helping people master the art of public speaking. Brenden shares his insights on how to become a confident and effective public speaker, and how to connect with your audience. Key Takeaways: Public speaking is a skill that can be learned: Many people believe that public speaking is a natural talent, but Brenden believes that anyone can become an effective public speaker with the right training and practice. Start with the end in mind: Before you start preparing your speech, think about the outcome you want to achieve. What message do you want to convey? What action do you want your audience to take? Structure your speech: A well-structured speech can help you communicate your message effectively. Brenden recommends using the following structure: Introduction, Body, and Conclusion. Use stories and examples: Stories and examples can help you connect with your audience and make your message more relatable. Practice, practice, practice: Practice is the key to becoming a confident and effective public speaker. Brenden recommends practicing your speech multiple times before you deliver it, and recording yourself to identify areas for improvement. Focus on your body language: Your body language can convey a lot of information to your audience. Brenden recommends using confident body language, such as standing up straight, making eye contact, and using hand gestures. Conclusion: In this episode, Brenden Kumarasamy shared his insights on how to become a confident and effective public speaker. He emphasized the importance of preparation, structure, and practice, and provided tips on how to connect with your audience. If you're looking to improve your public speaking skills, this episode is a must-listen! Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unleashing the Power of Eating, Learning, and Playing: Join CEO Chris Helfrich as he champions the impactful mission of Eat.Learn.Play Foundation to transform underserved communities through its three pillars, challenging the stigmas of charity and inspiring lasting change. My special guest is Chris Helfrich Meet Chris Helfrich, the force behind the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation. Not a stranger to charitable work, Chris has broadened his experience, starting from his endeavors with the UN Foundation Against Malaria to leading the Starlight Children's Foundation. Now, partnering with Ayesha and Steph Curry, Chris is transforming thousands of lives in Oakland through the power of Eat Learn Play. Using this powerful trifecta, Chris and his team advocate for children's access to nutritious food, quality education, and sports activities. His work goes beyond charity; it's about offering dignity, a proud sense of community, and a bright future for those in need. This bus totally flips receiving charity on its head, where normally there can be real stigma attached to receiving food from a food bank, right? And instead, what we have with the Eat and Play bus is like, kids just flocking to the bus to receive these resources. - Chris HelfrichChris Helfrich, CEO of the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, was interviewed on the A World of Difference podcast by host Lori Adams-Brown. The conversation centered around the foundation's mission and impact in Oakland, California. Helfrich discussed the three pillars of the foundation: eating, learning, and playing, and emphasized their importance in creating a happy and successful childhood. He shared how the foundation focuses on childhood literacy, with a specific emphasis on third-grade reading levels. Helfrich also highlighted the foundation's commitment to impact over legacy, as well as their partnership with the Curry family. Overall, the episode serves as an inspiring discussion on the work being done by the Eat Learn Play Foundation and the importance of community involvement in making a difference. In this episode, you will be able to: Dive into the transformative ethos of the Eat Learn Play Foundation and its initiatives in Oakland. Learn about the concentrated focus the foundation has on the intellectual growth of children. Appreciate the role of unstructured play and physical health in the holistic development of children. Unravel opportunities to participate and make a difference with the foundation's community initiatives. Grasp how local participation is a major asset in addressing and resolving social challenges. Pivotal Role of Eat Learn Play Foundation Eat Learn Play Foundation, co-founded by Chris Helfrich, Stephen Curry and his wife author and celebrity chef Ayesha, plays a significant role in uplifting the community in Oakland, California. With a stellar record of delivering 25 million meals, investing in literacy programs, and serving numerous young individuals, they create an impactful difference. Their strategy involves forming robust relationships with influential partners, and operating innovative programs like the mobile bookstore and market bus, fulfilling their mission to nourish, educate, and entertain. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit the Eat Learn Play Foundation website to learn more about their mission and the work they do in Oakland. Support the Eat Learn Play Foundation by making a donation to help provide meals, books, and resources to youth in need. Follow Eat Learn Play on social media to stay updated on their latest initiatives and events. Volunteer your time with Eat Learn Play to make a hands-on impact in the Oakland community. Purchase merchandise from the Eat Learn Play Foundation to support their programs and show your support. Explore partnership opportunities with Eat Learn Play if you or your organization align with their mission and want to make a difference in Oakland. Share the story of Eat Learn Play with your friends, family, and network to help raise awareness about their work and inspire others to get involved. Stay tuned for the big exciting announcement from Eat Learn Play by following their social media channels and subscribing to their newsletter. The opportunity to create something with two of the all-time great people in the Curries and leverage their networks, their voices, their platforms, and their passions to do good, it was a dream come true. - Chris Helfrich Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:02 - Introduction, Lori Adams Brown introduces the podcast and the guest, Christopher Helfrich, CEO of Eat Learn Play Foundation, started by Steph and Ayesha Curry. She highlights their impact in Oakland and the foundation's achievements in serving youth, investing in literacy programs, and providing meals. 00:03:09 - Chris's Background and Journey, Chris shares his background and how he got involved with Eat Learn Play Foundation. He talks about his previous work with the UN Foundation Against Malaria and his relationship with Steph Curry. He expresses his excitement to work with the Currys and leverage their passion and platforms for social good. 00:08:08 - Addressing Social Challenges in Oakland, Chris discusses the social challenges in Oakland, including high costs of living and food scarcity. He explains the work of Eat Learn Play Foundation in the community, such as providing meals and a mobile bus that serves as a free mobile bookstore and market. He emphasizes the importance of creating a culture of literacy and providing resources with dignity. 00:14:09 - Partnering with Women and BIPOC-Owned Businesses, Chris highlights Eat Learn Play Foundation's intentional choice to partner with women and BIPOC-owned businesses. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and the Currys' commitment to uplifting the community. He acknowledges the complicity in poverty and the need to provide opportunities and resources to those in need. 00:15:33 - The Three Pillars of Eat Learn Play, Chris explains the three pillars of Eat Learn Play Foundation 00:17:21 - The Importance of Competing and Education, Chris Helfrich discusses how competing in various sports has shaped Stephen Curry's character and the importance of education in the Curry family. The focus on childhood literacy is highlighted due to the high number of elementary school students reading below grade level in Oakland. 00:18:57 - The Creation of Eat, Learn, Play, Chris explains the process of developing the focus areas for the Curry Family Foundation. The pillars of nutrition, education, and play are identified as core ingredients for a happy, healthy, successful childhood. The name "Eat, Learn, Play" is chosen to encompass these areas. 00:21:09 - Impact vs Legacy, The Currys prioritize making a positive impact rather than focusing on legacy. The foundation aims to address community needs and provide resources where they are most needed. Their focus on impact guides their decision-making and strategic direction. 00:22:46 - The Importance of Play, Play is often underestimated in childhood development, but it is crucial for physical and mental health, as well as academic success. The foundation recognizes the impact of play and aims to facilitate active play among children. COVID-19 highlighted the importance of physical play for children's well-being. 00:26:44 - Remodeling Schoolyards for Play, The foundation is remodeling schoolyards in Oakland to create safe and inspiring spaces for children to play. The goal is to provide equitable access to quality sports and physical activity. The involvement of children in the design process 00:34:26 - Getting Involved with Eat.Learn.Play., Chris discusses how people can get involved with Eat.Learn.Play by donating, volunteering, or supporting their local food banks and schools. He emphasizes the importance of community support and mentions that the Curry family covers all administrative and fundraising costs for the foundation. 00:35:34 - Schoolyard Remodels and Volunteer Support, Chris highlights the need for volunteer support in their schoolyard remodel projects. He mentions that they have a couple hundred volunteers who help build these schoolyards, and it provides an incredible experience for those involved. 00:36:08 - Inspiring Local Involvement, Chris encourages people to get involved in their own hometowns and support local food banks or schools. He believes that sparking passion for local causes is just as valuable as supporting Eat.Learn.Play directly. 00:37:26 - The Power of Dreaming and Eating, Lori reflects on the power of dreaming and how many great ideas are born around tables. She discusses how sitting down to eat can inspire innovation and creativity. Lori also expresses her gratitude for the work that Eat.Learn.Play is doing and the impact they are making. 00:38:50 - How to Get Involved and Make an Impact, Lori encourages listeners to visit the Eat.Learn.Play website and explore ways to get involved, both through donations and volunteering. She emphasizes the importance of bringing differences together to make a positive impact in the community and commends Eat.Learn.Play for their focus on childhood Eat, Learn, Play. It's catchy, it says what we're about, and in a way that I think is joyful and playful, which is also how we try to show up for the community. - Chris Helfrich Become a Difference Maker and enjoy exclusive content. Join our exclusive membership club for as little as $5 USD/month at Difference Makers. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Dorothy Littell Greco is an author, photojournalist, writer, and marriage coach. Dorothy feels equally at home speaking in front of hundreds or standing behind her camera without saying a word. Her words and images offer hope and encouragement to those longing for healing, reconciliation, and joy. Her writing has been featured in Christianity Today, Missio Alliance, MOPs, Relevant Magazine, Christians for Biblical Equality, The Mudroom, Sojourners, Biola Center for Marriage and Family, Christine Cain’s Propel for Women, Perennial Generation, Patheos, and The Englewood Review of Books. Making Marriage Beautiful, herr first book, was published by David C Cook in January of 2017. Her second book, Marriage in the Middle, was published by InterVarsity Press in September of 2020. Past and present photography clients include: The National Geographic, New England Home Magazine, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Boston Globe, Yankee Magazine, Mass General Hospital, Harvard University, Boston University, Knopf Publishers, Lexington Christian Academy, Boston Trinity Academy, Arnold Arboretum, Houghton Mifflin, and many more. I have won several awards from Communication Arts Photography Annual and National Press Photographers. She is a graduate of Boston University and a member of Redbud Writers’ Guild and the Pelican Project. She has been married to Christopher for 31 years, and they have three grown sons and two amazing daughters-in-law. She loves walking on beaches, traveling, seeing great theater, and kayaking. She also enjoy spending time with friends and figuring out how to make awesome paleo meals. She joins us to talk about restoring marriage to the mutuality it was intended to be. Enter to win one of 2 copies of each of Dororthy's books in the giveaway! Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbrOther EPS mentioned in this podcast: EPS 49 Dr. Mimi Haddad (CEO of Christians for Biblical Equality) EPS 31 Dr. Graham Hill EPS 23 Kate Wallace Nunneley of the Junia Project EPS 30 Dr. Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer Check out Justice Revival and the #Faith4ERA campaign to get people of faith to help pass the ERA. *** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode was our most downloaded in 2024. TW: Support for Domestic Violence Survivors in Religious Settings The conversation explores the sensitive topic of domestic violence in religious contexts, emphasizing the need for awareness and support for survivors. Tia's experiences within her religious community highlight the challenges faced by individuals trapped in abusive situations. The episode encourages proactive involvement in recognizing and addressing abuse, promoting justice, and providing ongoing support for survivors seeking safety and healing. Trauma took your past, but it does not have to have your present and your future, too. And you are the one in charge of that. - Tia Levings In this episode, you will be able to: Explore personal stories of escaping Christian patriarchy and find inspiration for your own journey to empowerment. Learn about the profound impact of religious trauma on mental health and discover strategies for healing and resilience. Uncover the complexities of domestic violence within religious contexts and gain insights into supporting survivors. Gain a deep understanding of deconstructing fundamentalism in modern politics and its implications on society. Discover effective strategies for healing and recovery from religious abuse, empowering yourself to move forward with strength and confidence. My special guest is Tia Levings Tia Levings is an insightful writer, podcaster, and speaker, with a focus on the realities of Christian fundamentalism, evangelical patriarchy, and religious trauma. Her expertise has been featured in notable publications such as Salon, the Huffington Post, and Newsweek. As a content strategist, Tia delves into the impact of religious trauma on mental health, domestic violence within religious contexts, and the deconstruction of fundamentalism in modern politics, shedding light on these critical issues. Her forthcoming memoir, "A Well Trained Wife," chronicles her personal journey of escaping Christian patriarchy, presenting a compelling and courageous narrative that promises to resonate with those seeking empowerment and healing from religious abuse. Tia's work is driven by her passion for advocating resilience and recovery from religious trauma. The key moments in this episode are: 00:02:25 - Growing Up in Mainstream Fundamentalism 00:05:22 - Trauma and Dogmatism 00:07:42 - Effects of Fundamentalism on Women 00:14:08 - The Influence of High Control Religion 00:15:34 - The Pressure of Traditional Gender Roles 00:16:55 - Red Flags and High Control Religion 00:20:47 - The Manipulative Nature of Patriarchy 00:25:53 - Addressing Pushbacks and Myths 00:27:34 - The Incredulity of Religious Trauma 00:28:22 - Challenges in Seeking Justice 00:29:26 - Empowering Survivors 00:32:35 - Finding Solidarity and Community 00:38:27 - Building Healthy Relationships 00:41:09 - The Impact of Religious Trauma 00:43:18 - Coping with Discomfort and Denial 00:44:50 - Healing from Religious Trauma 00:46:31 - Advocating for Survivors 00:53:18 - Taking Action and Making a Difference 00:56:22 - Understanding Mental Illness and Abuse 00:57:45 - Supporting Victims of Domestic Violence Buy Tia Levings' best-selling book A Well Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy to support the author and gain deeper insights into her story and experiences. Join the Difference Maker Community on Patreon to access exclusive interviews, including a deeper conversation with Tia Levings, and support the podcast. Follow Tia Levings on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram to stay updated on her work and engage with her content. Share this podcast episode with others who may benefit from hearing Tia Levings' story and gaining insights into religious trauma and domestic violence. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Bluesky TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Uncover the shocking reality of the Southern Baptist Convention's actions with clergy sexual abuse survivor, Christa Brown. From disturbing cover-ups to unexpected alliances, her story will make you question everything you thought you knew. Stay tuned for a powerful journey of resilience, advocacy, and the quest for justice. You won't want to miss the unexpected twists and turns in part two of this eye-opening conversation. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the resilience and strength in clergy sexual abuse survivor stories, inspiring hope and empowerment. Uncover the lasting effects of spiritual abuse in adulthood and how to navigate healing and growth. Understand the role of the Southern Baptist Convention in abuse cover-ups, shedding light on the importance of accountability and transparency. Advocate for child abuse survivors and learn how collective action can bring about meaningful change and support. Explore the impact of living abroad on worldview, gaining a broader perspective on cultural influences and personal growth. My special guest is Christa Brown Christa Brown, a retired attorney and a strong advocate for child abuse survivors, brings a wealth of experience and insight to the conversation. With her new book, "Baptistland," she courageously shares her own journey of abuse, betrayal, and eventual transformation, shedding light on the pervasive issue of clergy sexual abuse within the Southern Baptist Convention. As one of the top ten religion newsmakers of 2022, Brown's unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth and demanding reforms within the denomination has made a significant impact. Her resilience and determination have not only inspired survivors but also sparked conversations about the crucial role of advocacy and collective action in addressing spiritual abuse. X (Twitter): @ChristaBrown777 Subscribe to In Solidarity on Substack! The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Trigger Warning: Discussion of Abuse 00:01:09 - Introduction to Christa Brown 00:03:36 - Living Abroad and Changing Worldview 00:07:07 - Family Dynamics and Abuse 00:16:43 - Delay in Reckoning with Abuse 00:17:54 - The Power of Sharing Stories 00:19:25 - Southern Baptist Convention's Amicus Brief 00:21:44 - Lack of Accountability 00:24:48 - Words vs. Actions 00:33:26 - Call to Action 00:34:57 - Importance of Checks and Balances 00:35:37 - Continuing the Call to Action 00:36:05 - Sitting in Darkness 00:37:09 - Preview of Next Week's Episode Join our Difference Maker community for an exclusive interview with Christa where she answers Lori's question about which of the 4 deaths were the hardest. Her answer will surprise you. Join here to watch the exclusive episode video: https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you ready to uncover the unexpected connection between racial justice and Christianity in US history? Get ready to be inspired and engaged as we reveal the surprising insights from this powerful conversation. Stay tuned to discover how this unexpected link can empower you to advocate for a more just and equitable world. You won't want to miss this eye-opening revelation. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the intersection of racial justice and Christianity in US history to foster a more inclusive and empathetic mindset. Gain insights into the impact of traveling on personal growth to inspire new perspectives and personal development. Explore African ancestry and identity to connect with cultural heritage and embrace a deeper sense of self. My special guest is Dr. Jemar Tisby Jemar Tisby is the author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Color of Compromise: The Truth about the Church's Complicity in Racism, How to Fight Racism. and How to Fight Racism: Young Reader's Edition. He is also a Professor of History at Simmons College of Kentucky in Louisville. Jemar has been a co-host of the "Pass the Mic" podcast since its inception seven years ago. His writing has been featured in the Washington Post, The Atlantic, and the New York Times among others. He is a frequent commentator on outlets such as NPR and CNN's New Day program. He speaks nationwide on the topics of racial justice, U.S. history and Christianity. Jemar earned his PhD in history and he studies race, religion, and social movements in the 20th century. You can follow his work through his newsletter, Footnotes, and on social media at @JemarTisby. "There's a different way than maybe you've heard to follow Jesus, particularly when it pertains to race injustice. And I think it's a better way because in many ways, the black church arose as an ecclesiastical rebuttal to white supremacy explicitly to challenge white supremacy and racism." - Jemar Tisby The key moments in this episode are: 00:02:29 - Traveling for Book Tours 00:06:29 - International Travel and Research 00:09:35 - Processing the Visceral Experience of Travel 00:13:04 - The Universal Appeal of Travel 00:14:27 - The Power of History 00:15:38 - Travel and History 00:17:35 - The Impact of History on Politics 00:23:26 - Christianity and Politics 00:27:35 - The Role of the Black Church 00:28:57 - The Need for Resilience in Today's Political Climate 00:32:43 - Unpacking Hard Truths and Finding Hope 00:37:51 - Telling the Other Side of the Story 00:40:15 - Inspiring Stories of Resilience 00:42:43 - Challenging Propaganda and Embracing Freedom Faith 00:44:07 - Exploring the Intersection of Race and Christianity in History 00:45:04 - The Burden of Injustice on Affected Communities 00:47:01 - Dehumanizing Rhetoric and its Impact 00:49:27 - Embracing Common Humanity and Working Together 00:51:20 - The Resilience and Power of the Spirit of Justice Join the Patreon Difference Maker community at www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference for exclusive content and conversations with experts like Jemar Tisby. Order Jemar Tisby's book The Spirit of Justice from his website at JemarTisby.com or from any book retailer. Subscribe to Jemar Tisby's Substack newsletter for regular updates and insights at JemarTisby.substack.com. Share this podcast episode with someone you think would benefit from the conversation and have a deeper discussion about the topics covered. Take a moment for self-care and introspection, practicing self-compassion and being mindful of your own well-being as you engage in making a difference in the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to work harder, take on more tasks, and just push through those workplace challenges, but the pain of feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and undervalued still lingers. It's time for a different approach to handle workplace adversity and trauma. Let's explore some strategies and support systems that can truly empower you and bring about real change. Join me in finding the right support and reclaiming your inherent value in the face of workplace challenges. In this episode, you will be able to: Develop resilience and empowerment with workplace bullying prevention strategies. Discover effective support systems for women in business to thrive in professional environments. Understand the impact of workplace adversity on women and how to navigate through challenges. Learn how to build peer support networks within organizations to foster a supportive work environment. Implement strategies to handle workplace trauma and emerge stronger in professional settings. My special guest is Karen Tay Karen Tay is founder of Inherent, where her team helps women leaders navigate transitions and adversities in their work/life journeys. How Inherent supports women leaders is backed by robust research with Princeton University. She is concurrently CEO and Head Coach at Threshold Allies, where she is a sought-after international coach and talent consultant, working with top leaders in business and government across Silicon Valley and Asia. She has leveraged her skills in leadership, talent development, strategy and policy to boost equality in cities, uplift underserved populations and women. Previously, she was the Head (Senior Director) of Strategy and Operations and Chief of Staff to the CEO at Iterative Health, a fast-growing digital health company that raised $180M in funding. She also built and led global technology talent operations for Singapore's Smart Nation Initiative and Singapore Global Network, scaling the tech talent pipeline by 20X in three years. As a strategy advisor to the Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers of Singapore, she designed and implemented billion-dollar education and social policy reforms and was a political speechwriter. She is a Singularity University faculty member, a Women's Forum editorial board member, published author, and a recipient of several awards and honors for her work in STEM and public good. Join a special workshop with Karen Tay in partnershipwith A World of Difference podcast: When work drama becomes work trauma: skills to help yourself and others (24 October, 5pm Pacific Time). Sign up here. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Workplace Trauma and Betterhelp Sponsorship 00:02:55 - Karen's Background and Work at Inherent 00:07:37 - Key Findings from the Princeton White Paper 00:10:52 - Impact on Companies and Support for Women 00:13:17 - Gender Disparities and Workplace Bullying 00:14:31 - Gender Disparity in Promotions and Opportunities 00:15:46 - Hierarchy and Power Dynamics 00:16:27 - Workplace Adversity and Support 00:18:39 - Long-Term Impacts of Workplace Bullying 00:25:21 - Invisible Challenges for Women in the Workplace 00:28:44 - Challenges for Women in the Workplace 00:30:29 - The Burnout Trap 00:31:57 - Strategies and Policies 00:35:10 - Workplace First Aid 00:37:47 - You're Not Alone 00:42:43 - Joining the Difference Maker Community 00:43:27 - The Power of Deep Conversations 00:44:00 - Importance of Finding Safe Spaces 00:44:48 - Spurring On Conversations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever heard the myths about building trust through emotional intelligence, dealing with workplace bullying, and the importance of empathy in leadership? Let's debunk these myths together. Myth 1: Building trust through emotional intelligence is just about being nice. Myth 2: Dealing with workplace bullying effectively means confronting the bully head-on. Myth 3: The importance of empathy in leadership is overrated. I'll share the truth behind these myths, but get ready for a mind-blowing revelation. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering emotional intelligence to build trust and rapport in the workplace. Overcoming workplace bullying with effective strategies for a healthier work environment. Harnessing the power of empathy for transformative leadership. Empowering women in the world of podcasting for greater diversity and inclusivity. Unleashing effective self-regulation strategies for stronger leadership capabilities. My special guest is Karen Hall Karen Hall, also known as the Queen of Empathy, is an executive producer, host, and speaker at the Los Angeles Tribune. She is a devoted mother, wife, and grandmother, as well as a woman of faith. Karen's expertise extends to being a podcast host and an Emotional Intelligence leadership coach, where she empowers leaders to enhance their emotional intelligence skills, navigate workplace dynamics effectively, and build trust through authentic and compassionate leadership. With a passion for inspiring others, Karen brings a unique blend of personal experience and professional insights to empower leaders across diverse industries. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Welcome and Introduction 00:01:22 - The Celebration of Purim 00:05:18 - Emotional Intelligence and Authentic Leadership 00:08:34 - The Power of Understanding 00:12:28 - Importance of De-escalating Emotions 00:13:10 - Importance of Emotional Intelligence and Listening Skills 00:14:09 - The Power of Empathy in Leadership 00:17:55 - Personal Experiences with Empathy and Bullying 00:21:00 - Dealing with Workplace Bullying 00:24:31 - Overcoming Challenges with Advocates and Support 00:25:42 - Advocacy for Women 00:26:27 - Power Dynamics in the Workplace 00:30:21 - Supportive Podcasting Community 00:34:37 - Empowering Women in Leadership 00:35:38 - Courage and Empathy in Leadership 00:37:48 - The Challenge of Empathy and Listening 00:38:19 - Sharing the Episode 00:38:36 - Karen Hall's Leadership Style 00:39:01 - Gratitude and Call to Action 00:39:57 - Final Words of Encouragement Connect with Karen Hall on LinkedIn to share your story with the Los Angeles Tribune. Share this episode with five people who need to hear it, whether they're dealing with a toxic boss, needing to learn empathy, or living in the LA area. Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone you think might need to hear it to help spread the word and support the community. Consider reaching out to Karen Hall for speaking opportunities or to share resources, conferences, or guests for her podcasts, including The Empathy Advantage, The Hero Within, and Unstoppable AF. If you or someone you know is dealing with a toxic situation, gather support and make an escape plan to ensure safety and well-being. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does this sound familiar? Have you been told to just forgive and forget, to move on and put it all behind you, but the pain of not being believed or supported after abuse is still lingering? The ineffective advice you've been given has left you feeling isolated and unheard, but there's hope for finding the understanding and validation you truly deserve. Let's talk about how to heal from the trauma of not being believed and find the support you need to move forward. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering strategies for overcoming narcissistic abuse in marriage. Discovering the path to healing from church-related trauma. Learning effective strategies for escaping abusive relationships. Cultivating emotional intelligence and mastering boundary setting. Navigating the journey of life after divorce and loss. My special guest is Michelle Moffitt Michelle Moffitt is a dynamic psychotherapist and leadership consultant known for guiding individuals and organizations through change using evidenced-based strategies. As a facilitator and speaker, she specializes in teaching Emotional Intelligence through effective communication, including conflict resolution, feedback delivery, negotiation, and setting boundaries. Her upcoming book, Cracked Open: A Journey to Resilient and Independent Mindset slated for release in January, dives into her real life journey to a resilient mindset, providing valuable insights for those navigating narcissistic abuse and church-related trauma. An overly optimistic Enneagram 7 wing 8, she infuses her work with positivity and actionable insights. A dedicated mom to five amazing adults, she seamlessly blends her professional knowledge with real-life experiences to empower her clients and audiences. Her passion for growth and development shines through in every aspect of her work, making her a sought-after voice in the fields of personal and professional transformation. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:23 - Walking Through Trauma 00:03:33 - Michelle's Resilience and Boldness 00:09:47 - Cracked Open: A Journey to Resilient and Independent Mindset 00:13:02 - Not Being Believed 00:14:24 - Recognizing Impression Management Systems 00:15:28 - Meeting Wade Mullen 00:16:30 - Prioritizing Well-being and Children 00:19:36 - Presenting Abuse to the Board 00:24:23 - Understanding Narcissistic Abuse 00:28:38 - Narcissistic Personality Disorder in Religious Systems 00:30:05 - Unpacking the Impact of Religious Expectations 00:33:11 - Early Realizations of Marital Issues 00:37:44 - Creating a Safety Plan and Seeking Help 00:43:01 - Struggling with Basic Human Needs 00:43:47 - Providing Safe Escape 00:44:23 - Repeated Storytelling for Healing 00:46:34 - Coping Strategies and Grief 00:51:35 - Navigating Holidays and Identity 00:56:50 - Journey of Healing 00:57:43 - Unbelievable Betrayal 01:00:23 - Finding Light in Darkness 01:06:41 - Tools for Healing 01:08:29 - Empowerment through Sharing Pre-order Michelle Moffitt's book Cracked Open: A Journey to Resilient and Independent Mindset on Amazon, available in Kindle, paperback, and hardback editions. Connect with Michelle Moffitt on LinkedIn and Instagram for more insights and updates on her work and book release. Listen to the upcoming best of 2024 episodes of A World of Difference podcast to catch up on the most downloaded and impactful conversations from the past year. Dr. Wade Mullen episode. Give A World of Difference podcast a five-star review on your preferred podcast platform to help more people discover and join the community of difference makers. Share an episode of A World of Difference podcast with someone in your life who could benefit from the inspiring and insightful conversations, and have a meaningful discussion around it. "It takes a long time to figure out who you are, what your identity is, what your own strengths are. You deserve all the healing." - Michelle Moffitt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you want to understand how survivors of religious trauma are finding the strength to reclaim their lives and make a difference? Join us as we explore a story of resilience, transformation, and healing in the face of religious abuse and domestic violence. We'll be sharing the solution so that you can achieve that result. Get ready to hear a shocking and moving story of how a survivor escaped when her life depended on it. Trauma took your past, but it does not have to have your present and your future, too. And you are the one in charge of that. - Tia Levings In this episode, you will be able to: Explore personal stories of escaping Christian patriarchy and find inspiration for your own journey to empowerment. Learn about the profound impact of religious trauma on mental health and discover strategies for healing and resilience. Uncover the complexities of domestic violence within religious contexts and gain insights into supporting survivors. Gain a deep understanding of deconstructing fundamentalism in modern politics and its implications on society. Discover effective strategies for healing and recovery from religious abuse, empowering yourself to move forward with strength and confidence. My special guest is Tia Levings Tia Levings is an insightful writer, podcaster, and speaker, with a focus on the realities of Christian fundamentalism, evangelical patriarchy, and religious trauma. Her expertise has been featured in notable publications such as Salon, the Huffington Post, and Newsweek. As a content strategist, Tia delves into the impact of religious trauma on mental health, domestic violence within religious contexts, and the deconstruction of fundamentalism in modern politics, shedding light on these critical issues. Her forthcoming memoir, "A Well Trained Wife," chronicles her personal journey of escaping Christian patriarchy, presenting a compelling and courageous narrative that promises to resonate with those seeking empowerment and healing from religious abuse. Tia's work is driven by her passion for advocating resilience and recovery from religious trauma. Tia is on Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing Tia Levings 00:01:17 - Trigger Warning and Self-Care 00:02:25 - Growing Up in Mainstream Fundamentalism 00:05:22 - Trauma and Dogmatism 00:07:42 - Effects of Fundamentalism on Women 00:14:08 - The Influence of High Control Religion 00:15:34 - The Pressure of Traditional Gender Roles 00:16:55 - Red Flags and High Control Religion 00:20:47 - The Manipulative Nature of Patriarchy 00:25:53 - Addressing Pushbacks and Myths 00:27:34 - The Incredulity of Religious Trauma 00:28:22 - Challenges in Seeking Justice 00:29:26 - Empowering Survivors 00:32:35 - Finding Solidarity and Community 00:38:27 - Building Healthy Relationships 00:41:09 - The Impact of Religious Trauma 00:43:18 - Coping with Discomfort and Denial 00:44:50 - Healing from Religious Trauma 00:46:31 - Advocating for Survivors 00:53:18 - Taking Action and Making a Difference 00:56:22 - Understanding Mental Illness and Abuse 00:57:11 - Seeking Justice for Mica 00:57:45 - Supporting Victims of Domestic Violence 00:58:30 - Making a Difference  Follow us: https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference https://twitter.com/awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference www.tiktok.com/@aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever heard these myths about talent development and career growth in diverse cultures? Myth 1: You have to wait for opportunities to come to you. Myth 2: Technical skills are the only path to success. Myth 3: Adapting to a new culture means sacrificing your own values. I'll share the truth about these myths, but let's just say there's a game-changing strategy that high achievers could use to accelerate their growth. Get ready for a mindset shift that can transform your career. In this episode, you will be able to: Unleash the power of talent development strategies for global teams and propel your career to new heights. Master the art of navigating career growth in diverse cultures and set yourself apart as a global leader. Elevate your leadership skills for the modern workplace and become a sought-after leader in a culturally diverse environment. Harness the benefits of mentorship in career advancement and accelerate your professional growth on a global scale. Embrace the challenge of adapting to technological changes in talent management and stay ahead in the global career landscape. My special guest is Dr. Shveta Miglani. Dr. Miglani excels in constructing skills-based organizations and offers expert career coaching. She leverages her extensive two-decade experience to provide superior organizational solutions and learning initiatives. Her core competencies encompass corporate learning and development programs, diversity and inclusion strategies, performance management, and executive coaching To dive further, with a robust career at industry giants like Micron Technology, GlobalFoundries, SanDisk, Palo Alto Networks, and Salesforce, she has been a catalyst for meaningful change and innovation in workplace culture. Her upcoming book 'Take Charge of your New Job - Your Success Playbook', is your essential guide to thriving in a new position. Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role or joining a new company, this book provides actionable strategies to set you up for success. From navigating company culture to forging key relationships, you’ll discover how to excel in your first 100 days and beyond. The key moments in this episode are: 00:03:15 - Cultures and Career Impact 00:05:30 - Career Inspiration and Specialization 00:10:25 - Avoiding Mistakes in a New Role 00:13:59 - Information Overload and Proactiveness in the Workforce 00:18:06 - Work-Life Balance and Avoiding Burnout 00:20:23 - Trends in Talent Development: Upskilling and Reskilling 00:24:57 - The Role of AI in Talent Development 00:27:08 - Emotional and Cultural Intelligence in Upskilling for AI Partnership 00:27:55 - Importance of AI in Instructional Design 00:30:44 - Taking Ownership of Career Growth 00:35:47 - Embracing Cultural Differences in Teamwork 00:39:41 - Navigating Career Growth Within a Team 00:41:05 - Advice for New Leaders 00:41:18 - Stepping into a New Leadership Role 00:44:46 - Thriving as a Leader 00:47:53 - Making a Difference in Your Career 00:48:09 - The Success Playbook Visit Shweta Miglani's website at shwetamiglani.com to sign up for her newly released book, Take Charge of Your New Job, Your Success Playbook. Connect with Shweta Miglani on LinkedIn for more insights and resources on career development and leadership. Share this episode with someone who is starting a new job, navigating a career change, or seeking career growth to help them gain valuable insights. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers, including one with Dr. Shveta Miglani only available for patrons) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Lori Adams-Brown on the World of Difference Podcast as she shares 12 tips to support survivors of spiritual abuse. As someone who has personally experienced this, Lori emphasizes the importance of listening without judgment and validating survivors' feelings. She provides practical ways to support your friend or family member, including self-care and connecting with resources. Lori also urges listeners to educate themselves and hold abusers accountable. This episode covers how to support survivors of workplace harassment as well, with tips on reporting incidents and providing energy-boosting activities. Don't miss this informative and empowering episode on helping survivors heal from spiritual abuse. Long Summary Lori Adams-Brown is back at it again with another compelling episode of A World of Difference! In this week's episode, she delves into the often-misunderstood topic of spiritual abuse and offers 12 tips on how to support those who have experienced it. Drawing on her experience as a survivor of this heinous act, Lori emphasizes the importance of listening, validating feelings, and providing resources such as therapy and support groups. She advises against placing undue pressure on survivors to forgive too quickly, instead encouraging practical and tangible support such as paying for therapy or organizing meetings with church leadership.  The episode also provides advice on supporting those who have endured hostile work environments, harassment, and discrimination. Offering a myriad of practical solutions such as offering to help document experiences and going for walks together, Lori reiterates the importance of being patient and understanding in the healing process. The episode closes with a call to action for listeners to educate themselves on spiritual abuse, hold church leadership accountable, and offer ongoing support.  Listeners are in for an informative and heart-warming episode, where Lori shares her experience and expertise with grace and humility. Her tips and advice are a must-listen for anyone looking to support survivors of spiritual abuse and other forms of trauma. So, put on your headphones, tune in, and prepare to be inspired! Timestamps [00:00:02] Tips for Supporting Survivors of Spiritual Abuse [00:03:30] Supporting Spiritual Abuse Survivors [00:06:56] Supporting Spiritual Abuse Survivors [00:10:19] Supporting Survivors of Spiritual Abuse [00:13:42] Practical Ways to Support Survivors of Abuse [00:16:30] Supporting survivors of workplace abuse [00:20:00] Encouraging Support for Spiritual Abuse Survivors Episode Links to Books Lori mentioned (scroll to bottom of Linktree) https://linktr.ee/loriadamsbrown Other EPS mentioned in this EPS: Our Story Part 1: The Calm Before the Storm (There are 6 EPS in the Our Story series, where Lori and Jason share their spiritual abuse story in long form. EPS 100-105) You are invited to: Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join Lori and other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, for as little as $5 a month, and enjoy free merch. You are warmly invited to join Lori and other patrons of this podcast in our Patreon community with exclusive EPS just for patrons. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you want to truly understand the impact of international adoption and the complex web of privilege and bias it entails? If you're seeking the solution to this, then join me as we delve into this eye-opening conversation that will increase your understanding of privilege and bias in adoption practices. Let's uncover the truth together. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand how international adoption policies impact children's lives. Gain insight into the support available for birth mothers considering adoption. Uncover the mental health effects of adoption on adoptees. Explore the intersection of adoption and reproductive rights. Recognize the privilege and bias in domestic adoption practices. My special guest is Dr. Gretchen Sisson Gretchen Sisson, a research sociologist and author of "The Politics of Adoption and the Privilege of American Motherhood," is a respected figure at the University of California, San Francisco's Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health ANSIRH) in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive sciences. Her work on adoption relinquishment after abortion denial has been cited in the dissent for the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs vs Jackson, Women's Health Organization, and has garnered attention from renowned publications such as the Washington Post, Time Magazine, the Nation, NPR, New York Magazine, Vox, and Mother Jones. With a focus on the mental, physical, and financial aspects of women's experiences following pregnancy, Gretchen's expertise sheds light on the complex intersection of adoption and reproductive rights, providing valuable insights for prospective adoptive parents considering transracial adoption. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:03:49 - The Impact of Adoption Relinquishment 00:11:19 - Cultural Narratives and Adoption 00:13:38 - International Adoption and Child Trafficking 00:14:43 - Changing Landscape of International Adoption 00:15:11 - The Decline of International Adoption 00:17:01 - The Complexities of Transracial Adoption 00:23:08 - Intersection of Adoption and Reproductive Health 00:26:25 - Nuances of Abortion and Adoption 00:29:16 - Reflection on Adoption Choices 00:30:55 - Impact of Social Safety Nets 00:34:29 - Unique American Domestic Adoption System 00:38:31 - Narratives and Privilege in Adoption 00:41:35 - Unpaid Labor and Normative Ideals 00:43:56 - Challenges of Safe Housing for Pregnant Women 00:44:18 - Coercive Tactics of Adoption Agencies 00:46:35 - Advice for Adoptive Parents 00:49:00 - Overcoming Shame and Guilt 00:55:35 - Embracing Differences and Deepening Understanding 00:58:09 - Importance of Good Relationships 00:58:18 - Spreading Joy and Making a Difference 00:58:30 - You Matter 00:58:32 - Empowering Others "We don't value any of those things that families in poverty, that parents living in poverty can give their children, because we believe this middle class ideal is so, you know, undeniably desirable." - Gretchen Sisson Episode with Cameron Lee Small on Adoptees Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join podcast host Lori Adams-Brown in this thrilling episode of A World of Difference as she uncovers the alarming events at the Southern Baptist Convention in New Orleans, discussing the controversy surrounding women pastors and the issue of abuse within the church. With personal experiences as a woman pastor in the Southern Baptist Convention and a victim of abuse, Lori candidly shares her reaction to what she witnessed. Be warned of potential triggering content. From discussing the use of NDAs to cover up abuse to the need to shift the basic ideas and theology behind the "umbrella authority" structure, this episode unpacks a range of issues affecting the church. With calls to action for listeners to support survivors, encourage whistleblowers and advocate for human rights, this podcast is a must-listen for those wanting to make a difference and bring about change. Let's set aside differences and come together to support survivors and create safer spaces for all. Long Summary In A World of Difference, Lori Adams-Brown addresses the Southern Baptist Convention and the difficult subject of abuse allegations and sexism within the church. As a survivor of abuse at the hands of Andy Wood, the successor to Rick Warren at Saddleback Church, Lori has a personal and emotional connection to the issue. She calls out specific men who she does not believe are effective allies and is disappointed by the treatment of women pastors. She invites everyone to join the conversation about making a difference, acknowledging the diversity of her audience. Guests including Dr. Kristen Kobaz Doumet and Dr. Diane Langberg suggest that the convention needs to take a systemic approach to combating abuse and sexism, including the need for women to be involved in diagnosing the problem. The speakers express their sadness regarding the devolution of the SBC from its core theology of the "priesthood of all believers" into limiting women's direct access to Jesus. The podcasts suggest that Echo and Saddleback Church bring in an organization specializing in investigating churches in the wake of abuse allegations to address abuse allegations at a mega church in Silicon Valley. The podcast encourages people to speak out, support survivors, and join the movement for positive change. The speaker emphasizes the need to find a better way to deal with a difficult situation and stop excusing, minimizing, and throwing hands up in the air. Listen to A World of Difference for a raw and powerful conversation about the struggles of making a difference in a male-centric denomination. Timestamps [00:00:02] Disturbing Aspects of the Southern Baptist Convention [00:04:06] Controversy over women pastors in Southern Baptist Convention [00:08:11] Grappling with Abuse and Women in the Church [00:11:35] Abuse Cover-ups in Saddleback and Echo Church [00:15:29] Challenges of Reporting Abuse in Christian Communities [00:19:17] Supporting Trauma Survivors and Female Representation [00:22:38] Questioning Use of Male Allies for Women [00:26:33] Power Abuse in Religion [00:30:15] Rick Warren's Damaging Leadership and Misogyny [00:33:57] Addressing Sexism and Racism in the SBC [00:37:38] Importance of Third-Party Investigation in Abuse Allegations [00:41:30] Call to Ban NDAs and Remove Abuser in Southern Baptist Convention [00:45:19] Empowering Listeners for Change Episode Links Lori on Hagar's Voice podcast Lori on Bodies Behind the Bus podcast Women in the Church series Best Quotes [00:10:12] Women don't need permission from any man, church, or denomination to use a gift that God has given them [Unknown] The controversy around women pastors overshadowed and was used as a distraction to the very prominent issue that should have been front center, which is abuse [Unknown] Using this fight for 'women pastors' has given a lot of limelight, has given a controversy and a stage and an opportunity to speak and make it look as though these men at Saddleback and at Echo Church are for women Other Materials Lori's latest Substack Newsletter: Trophy Pastors: How Women are Being Used as a Tool of Distraction From Abuse in the SBC All Quotes [00:14:21] In order to shift culture, though, it would just take so much. We're talking about power dynamics. We're talking patriarchal structures, theological interpretations that may or continue to enable abuse to occur [00:09:33] A shout out to Robert Douwnen of the Houston chronicle who really broke a lot of this story a couple of years ago [00:01:11] We've seen abuse survivors dismissed and minimized and really just an overall disappointing convention when it comes to abuse [00:08:47] Within the SBC, there's many types of abuse that have taken place. Everything from sexual abuse of adults to sexual abuse of children, boys, and girls. And there's been all kinds of abuse of power that has taken place psychological abuse, spiritual abuse, emotional, verbal, financial, and even some labor abuse that we're starting to really begin to discuss [00:06:57] Women pastors have very much been in the news. Women pastors have been discussed on Twitter. the Theobros [00:04:18] And if you haven't, I don't know if I recommend that you watch it or not because it was pretty intense, but you've probably at least seen some of the news articles coming out about it [00:09:19] But I think what's important is that we acknowledge and address the problem and understand the historical context [00:13:58] I really don't understand why more people aren't talking about abuse prevention, advocating for survivors, human rights [00:07:07] And all types of people along the spectrum of what This means theologically and sociologically, people have been saying all kinds of helpful things and some things that might be triggering to some of you who either are women pastors, believe women should be pastors or are still sort of confused or maybe some of you are just very adamantly against that, that that's not something you believe in [Unknown] The controversy around women pastors overshadowed and was used as a distraction to the very prominent issue that should have been front center, which is abuse [00:03:33] I believe that it takes so many perspectives to help us understand how we can come alongside abuse survivors, how we can come alongside women who've just experienced what so many of us have experienced where so much misogyny, so much discrimination, so much dismissing of women's voice or just the absence of them in a conversation about women by and large being led by mostly men [00:16:42] And so when we're talking about shifting the culture, You would have to shift so many of the basic ideas that exist in some of the theology that has gone back for, you know, a couple last year [Unknown] Using this fight for 'women pastors' has given a lot of limelight, has given a controversy and a stage and an opportunity to speak and make it look as though these men at Saddleback and at Echo Church are for women [00:14:07] The individuals who have worked within the SBC aren't all linking arms to promote change on behalf of these who have been oppressed often by pastors or church leaders and denominational leaders [00:10:12] Women don't need permission from any man, church, or denomination to use a gift that God has given them [00:04:32] Please, if you are somebody who's experienced abuse, feel free to pause this podcast and take it in chunks, feel free to just stop it altogether and never ever listen again. or feel free to just tap, you know, stick your toe in this water and see how it feels [00:00:43] If you have experienced abuse of any kind, Please listen or discretion advised [00:02:36] Having experienced also abuse psychological abuse, emotional, verbal, spiritual, financial abuse at the hands of Andy Wood, who now has been the successor to Rick Warren at Saddleback Church [00:13:10] Even the people saying they're against abuse and against cover up publicly on Twitter, sometimes they're a part of the cover-up, and it's all a lot of smoke and mirrors [00:01:30] It's caused people, I know, personally, women in particular to just grieve and lament and say, what in the actual world is happening here? Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Merry Christmas to all who celebrate! ********* Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Bette Dickinson is a prophetic artist, writer, and speaker who invites audiences to connect with God through visual parables of the spiritual journey in her ministry Awakening the Soul. Bette earned her MDiv through Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and has worked with ministries like InterVarsity, World Vision, Infinitum, and Kensington Church to awaken the soul through beauty and wonder. Bette and her husband live in Traverse City Michigan with their two boys.  Visit her website at www.bettedickinson.com. Follow her on Instagram @Bette_Dickinson. Bette's book is: Making Room in Advent: 25 Devotions for a Season of Wonder  *** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the political landscape and the pressure to vote a certain way as a Christian woman, then you are not alone! The conflicting narratives and the fear of making the wrong choice can be paralyzing, leaving you feeling isolated in your decision-making process. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the impact of US elections on Christians and gain insights into navigating political beliefs with faith. Learn about the crucial role of empathy in effective political leadership and its significance for shaping a compassionate society. Explore the intersection of Christian nationalism and politics to understand the complexities of religious identity in the political landscape. Uncover the significance of voting as a Christian woman and how your voice can make a meaningful impact in shaping the future. Gain insights into recognizing and addressing spiritual abuse in the context of US politics, empowering you to navigate faith and politics with wisdom and discernment. My special guest is Johnna Harris Johnna Harris, a white Christian woman and a proud mom, brings a unique perspective to the table. As the host of Bodies Behind the Bus podcast, she shares compelling stories of spiritual abuse survivors, shedding light on the impact of faith and politics. Her journey as an adoptive mom has fueled her passion for issues like adoption, family preservation, and abortion, shaping her political stance. Living in Arizona, an epicenter of Christian nationalism, Johnna's experiences offer a thought-provoking insight into the intersection of religion and politics, especially for Christian women. With her down-to-earth approach and relatable experiences, Johnna's voice adds a valuable layer to the conversation on voting, empathy, and faith. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:00:34 - Better Help Sponsorship 00:01:38 - Election Day and Political Landscape 00:04:53 - Navigating Voting as a Christian Woman 00:09:23 - Impact of US Politics and Trauma 00:14:08 - Pro Choice vs. Pro Life 00:15:38 - Trump's Influence 00:21:12 - Kamala Harris Rally Experience 00:26:32 - Leadership and Empathy 00:28:36 - Women in Peacemaking 00:28:44 - redefining strength and empathy 00:29:27 - Kamala Harris as a prosecutor and advocate 00:32:38 - Longing for empathy and joy 00:39:51 - The impact of the election on women's lives 00:42:50 - Navigating Spiritual Abuse and Reflecting on Character and Integrity Issues 00:43:23 - Recognizing Narcissistic Behavior and Seeking Support 00:44:12 - Warning Signs and Calls for Support 00:49:24 - Spiritual Abuse and Coercion in Voting 00:54:09 - Hope for an Empathetic and Empowered Future 00:57:16 - Connecting through FaceTime 00:57:47 - Observing elections from Asia 00:58:14 - Voting as a family legacy 01:00:13 - Empowerment through voting 01:01:32 - Embracing diverse perspectives Your allegiance lies with God. End of discussion. - Johnna Harris Follow Lori Adams-Brown on social media for updates and discussions on important topics. Join an organization like How Women Lead or How Women Invest to be part of a community that supports and empowers women in leadership roles. Educate yourself on the political landscape and make an informed decision when voting in local and national elections. Consider making a donation to support political candidates or causes that align with your values and beliefs. Engage in respectful and open conversations with others, even if you disagree, to promote understanding and empathy. Podcast Social Media Links https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Dr. Beth Allison Barr for a little history lesson where we see that the role of the pastor's wife hasn't always been this way. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the empowering impact of women in church leadership roles. Uncover the influence of patriarchal systems on women in ministry today. Explore the fascinating historical evolution of the pastor's wife role. Navigate the unique challenges faced by pastors' wives in evangelical churches. Embrace the benefits of inclusive leadership for a more diverse and welcoming church community. My special guest is Dr. Beth Allison Barr Dr. Beth Allison Barr, (PhD, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) is James Vardaman Endowed Chair of History at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where she specializes in medieval history, women’s history, and church history. She is the author of the USA Today bestseller The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth. Her work has been featured by NPR and the New Yorker, and she has written for Christianity Today, the Washington Post, The Dallas Morning News, Sojourners, and Baptist News Global. Barr lives in Texas with her husband, a Baptist pastor, and their two children. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing Dr. Beth Allison Barr 00:01:07 - Unpacking the Role of the Pastor's Wife 00:02:03 - The Personal Impact 00:02:55 - The Intersection of History and Personal Experience 00:13:49 - Women in Ministry and The Southern Baptist Convention 00:14:41 - Historical Context of Women in Ministry 00:21:02 - Expectations and Unpaid Labor 00:22:12 - Gendered Giftedness and Leadership 00:26:20 - Dorothy Patterson's Symbolic Submission 00:28:08 - The Cost of Patriarchy 00:30:59 - The Patriarchal Bargain 00:33:14 - Burden of the Ideal Pastor's Wife 00:36:25 - Stress and Expectations 00:38:08 - Embracing Inclusive Leadership 00:42:00 - The impact of patriarchal systems on women in the church 00:43:27 - Righteous anger and calls to action 00:44:31 - Recognizing the unseen labor of women in the church 00:46:11 - Embracing women's God-given gifts and dreams 00:47:35 - Encouragement to make a difference Pre-order Dr. Beth Allison Barr's book Becoming the Pastor's Wife to gain deeper insights into the challenges and expectations placed on women in ministry. Follow Dr. Beth Allison Barr on her website and social media platforms to stay updated on her writing and research. Share this podcast episode with a friend who needs to hear the empowering message about women's roles in the church and the importance of embracing their own God-given gifts and callings. Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review to support the community and help spread the message of making a difference in the world. Take the time to reflect on your own role and calling, and give yourself permission to take up space and embrace your full, unapologetic presence in the church and the world. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy, try out https://www.betterhelp.com/difference for 10% off your first month today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you heard the myths about the future of work talent management strategies? Let's debunk three myths: 1. Internal talent marketplaces only benefit employees, 2. Skills-based hiring practices limit diversity, and 3. Women on corporate boards have minimal impact. I'll reveal the truth behind these myths, but be prepared for a compelling twist that will challenge your perspective. Stay tuned! In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering Future of Work Talent Management Strategies: Learn to adapt and thrive in the evolving workplace landscape. Unveiling the Benefits of an Internal Talent Marketplace: Discover how to maximize your internal talent pool for organizational growth. Embracing Skills-Based Hiring Practices: Unlock the power of matching the right skills with the right roles for enhanced productivity. Understanding the Impact of Women on Corporate Boards: Explore the positive influence of gender diversity in corporate decision-making. Addressing Employee Burnout and Engagement: Uncover effective strategies to boost employee well-being and retention. My special guest is Dr. Edie Goldberg Edie Goldberg, Ph.D. is the President of E.L. Goldberg & Associates in California. She is a nationally recognized expert in talent management and the future of work. Her practice focuses on designing HR strategies to attract, engage, develop, and retain employees. Prior to starting her own firm, she was a Global Thought Leader in the Human Capital Practice at Towers Perrin. Edie is the co-author of The Inside Gig: How Sharing Untapped Talent Across Boundaries Unleashes Organizational Capacity. She has authored and co-authored numerous other book chapters and articles on the topics of performance management, strategic workforce planning, career development, skills-based talent strategies, and internal talent mobility. She has a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from the University of Albany, SUNY. She is the Chair of the SHRM Foundation Board of Directors, and is a member of the Advisory Board to several HR Technology companies. The key moments in this episode are: 00:08:32 - Career Inspiration and Future of Work 00:13:56 - Impact of Talent Management Strategies 00:17:11 - Importance of Upskilling 00:17:32 - Challenges of New Employees 00:18:08 - Cost Savings and Employee Engagement 00:21:25 - Burnout and AI 00:27:40 - Widening Pathways to Talent 00:34:26 - Generational Shifts in the Workplace 00:35:06 - Embracing Generational Differences 00:37:21 - The Impact of COVID-19 on Work 00:39:51 - The Role of Women on Corporate Boards 00:44:07 - Making Ethical Decisions in the Boardroom 00:48:20 - Strategies for Talent Management "I fundamentally want to help individuals achieve all that they can in their career and be happy and fulfilled. And we spend so much of our time at work. It is so important that that experience enriches our life." - Edie Goldberg Connect with Edie Goldberg on LinkedIn to stay updated on her thought leadership and insights in talent management and the future of work. Check out Edie Goldberg's book The Inside Gig: How Sharing Untapped Talent Across Boundaries Unleashes Organizational Capacity for in-depth knowledge and strategies on talent management and internal talent mobility. Visit the SHRM Foundation website at https://www.shrm.org/foundation to access free resources and research on widening pathways to talent, skills-based hiring, and other HR-related topics. Join the Difference Makers community on Patreon at www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference to access exclusive content, including an additional interview with Edie Goldberg. Follow Lori Adams-Brown on social media and visit the A World of Difference podcast website for more inspiring conversations and insights on making a difference in the workplace and beyond. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling overwhelmed and burnt out from the demands of the education system, then you are not alone! Many educators find themselves struggling to navigate the pressures of teaching and managing their own well-being in the midst of it all. The constant juggling act of meeting expectations, dealing with student needs, and managing personal stress can leave you feeling exhausted and depleted. If you're looking for a way to break free from this cycle and find a sense of balance and purpose, then you are in the right place! In this episode, you will be able to: Cultivate inner peace and resilience through transformative inner work practices. Discover the profound impact of somatic exercises on mental well-being and emotional balance. Enhance your resilience and well-being through personal development strategies tailored for educators. Unleash the power of creativity for emotional healing and self-discovery. Equip yourself with effective strategies to navigate and prevent educator burnout. My special guest is Andrew Lang Andrew Lang is an educator in the Pacific Northwest, an alumnus of Richard Rohr’s Living School for Action and Contemplation, and core facilitator of the Inner Work Cohort. He is the author of Unmasking the Inner Critic: Lessons for Living an Unconstricted Life and writes frequently on the importance of questioning the narratives we’ve been handed and how we can bring together our personal inner work with collective activism and healing. You can find more of his work and offerings at www.AndrewGLang.com. Giveaway: Sign up for one free spot in the October Cohort for A World of Difference podcast listeners specifically. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction and Sponsorship by Betterhelp 00:03:53 - Andrew's Journey as an Educator 00:09:55 - Posture Shift and Personal Development 00:12:08 - Impact of the System on Educators 00:13:25 - Transformation and Inspiring Stories 00:14:45 - The Impact of Narratives 00:16:36 - Shifting Responsibilities 00:20:22 - Unpacking Cultural Narratives 00:24:47 - Fear of Change 00:26:33 - The Practice of Resilience 00:29:56 - Grounding Practices for Wellness and Resilience 00:30:53 - Impact of Somatics and Trauma 00:32:48 - Providing Tools for Healing 00:35:31 - The Power of Poetry and Music 00:43:08 - Inner Work Cohort and Practice-Oriented Learning 00:44:22 - Embracing the Journey Together 00:44:49 - Integration of Learnings 00:46:09 - Exclusive Deep Dive 00:47:06 - Appreciation for Educators 00:48:28 - Summer Break and Refreshment Resources Andrew mentioned: Resmaa Menakem, My Grandmother's Hands Gabor Maté, The Myth of Normal Mirabai Starr, Wild Mercy: Living the Fierce and Tender Wisdom of the Women Mystics Need a little help? Sign up for 10% off your first month at Better Help today at: www.betterhelp.com/difference https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod ttps://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Allyson McKinney Timm, a global justice advocate and founder of Justice Revival, leads an interfaith campaign to support women's rights, gender equality and the Equal Rights Amendment to the US Constitution, despite the culture war drama, religious resistance and financial challenges she faces. "We need to do everything possible to ensure women's rights are protected, and the Equal Rights Amendment to the US Constitution is an essential and necessary starting point. No one's saying that it is going to finish the job, but it's what we need just to get out of the gate and to get serious about tackling these problems." - Allyson McKinney Timm Allyson McKinney Timm is a human rights lawyer, scholar, and faith leader with two decades of experience defending the dignity and rights of those on the margins in the US and globally. She is the executive director and founder of Justice Revival, an organization that works to inspire, educate, and mobilize Christian action to support the human rights of all people. Allyson is a passionate advocate for human rights, founding Justice Revival to inspire, educate, and mobilize Christian action to support the human rights of all people. When she reflects on the issues facing women globally and in the US, safety, provision, and dignity all come to the forefront. To address the systemic inequality that women have faced in the US, she has been pushing for the Equal Rights Amendment to the US Constitution. Despite resistance from some who are afraid of inclusion and equality, she has continued to fight for the ERA and other measures to protect women's human rights. As Allyson works to bring about a cultural shift towards recognizing the human rights of all people, she is reminded of the human costs of discrimination and hopes to see the US take the lead in upholding and protecting. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How the US Constitution is Lagging Behind in Protecting Women's Rights 2. The Challenges of Promoting Human Rights Awareness in the US 3. Examining Human Rights Through a Legal and Theological Lens. Resources: www.justicerevival.org Other episodes you'll enjoy: Mimi Haddad on CBE: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/s4e79 Kate Wallace Nunneley of the Junia Project: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/s2e23 Dorothy Greco on Egalitarian Marriage: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/s7e107 Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Website: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: {LINK} Chapter Summaries: [00:00:02] Lori Adams Brown: Happy International Women's Day to every woman around the world. Today we have a very special guest, allyson McKinney Timm, the executive director and founder of Justice Revival. allyson is a human rights lawyer, a scholar, and a faith leader with two decades of experience. [00:03:59] Justice Revival is a diverse and inclusive Christian ministry with a mission of inspiring, educating, and mobilizing Christian action to support the human rights of all people. A lot of Justice Revival's work over the last six years has been creating innovative Christian education on human rights. It's such a rare space to see justice come together in the US. [00:06:05] This week marks International Women's Day. What do you believe are the most pressing issues facing women globally and in the US? Safety, provision and dignity are common themes. Although we often want to point fingers elsewhere, we certainly have much, much work to do here. [00:09:19] Faith for Era submitted tesTimmony at Senate hearing on Equal Rights Amendment. The measure would enshrine equality for women in the US constitution. Some opponents have argued it's unnecessary or could have unintended consequences. [00:15:42] Part of what the Era would do is raise the bar on sex discrimination. But there can still be other important considerations that are part of the analysis. It is so important to understand what it will and won't do and not fall prey to some of the narratives. [00:19:49] Christianity too often gets invoked to oppose human rights rather than uphold it. That fear of a more diverse, inclusive, egalitarian society has driven opposition to the era for the last 50 years. I'd love for you to help people understand how they can get involved in advocating for the Era. [00:23:06] The US is one of only seven countries worldwide that has so far failed to fully ratify and join the Women's Treaty. Most of the countries where your listeners are will already be part of CDA. And that's another key mechanism that's used to promote reform. [00:25:33] There is an American tendency or desire to think of ourselves as a world leader on human rights. I would like to see Americans thinking about how to do human rights here at home. Revival is deeper commitment to human rights and especially within the Christian community. [00:29:35] Justice Revival is working towards social justice. How specifically could individuals and communities support this work? Challenges include raising awareness about the work we do in the media. Third challenge is raising the support, the financial support, year after year. [00:32:11] I love how your perspective on theology and law has come together to help all of justice revival be born. What advice would you give to people who are interested in promoting gender equality and social justice? [00:37:31] Ali: On International Women's Day, I want to mention my mom, Suan, because she is the inspiration and really probably the reason I ended up doing this. How can people find you and more of your work? Where do you want to point them to? [00:40:15] Ali Vitali: International Women's Day is a chance to learn from women around the world. She says she has been blessed to work with Justice Revival board member Allie O'Brien. She'll be in Abu Dhabi for the event, and she'll be posting updates on social media. [00:42:01] I just want to encourage all of us to find just one thing. Maybe it's reading a book or listening to the story of a woman who's experienced something that she mentioned. Contacting your person in Congress that represents you to let them know your thoughts. There's so many ways to get involved. [00:44:08] The word courage comes from the root word related to heart. When you experience the feelings of others and that gives you that courage, maybe that's where you need to start. I believe that courage is contagious. Your next step is today. [00:44:57] Ali talks with us about her mom and how her mom inspired her. You can go to our Patreon community as little as $5 a month. If you want to join in the conversation about what your next step is for International Women's Day, for Women's History Month, for working for human rights, would love to hear about it. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling bewildered and unsure about how to navigate the influence of white male voters in the US election, then you are not alone! The current political landscape can leave you feeling overwhelmed and lost, especially when it seems like your voice isn't being heard. But what if I told you there's a way to understand and leverage your influence as a white male voter? Let's dive into the factors that are shaping the political decisions and explore how you can make informed choices that truly matter. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand how economic conditions shape US elections and your role in influencing them. Discover effective strategies for engaging and empowering young white male voters in the political process. Explore the pivotal role of digital advertising in shaping political campaigns and its impact on voter engagement. Address concerns about election integrity and learn how to ensure your voice is heard in the electoral process. Learn how to contribute to and build inclusive political movements for a stronger, more united post-election landscape. My special guest is Mike Nellis Mike Nellis, a seasoned veteran in Democratic politics and social impact work, has left an indelible mark on the political landscape. Nellis has been instrumental as the Founder and CEO of Authentic, a digital-first fundraising and advertising agency in shaping digital advertising and fundraising strategies, having raised over a billion dollars for Democratic campaigns. Notably, as a former senior advisor to Kamala Harris and the visionary organizer of White Dudes for Harris, Mike Nellis brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the complexities within the political sphere. The key moments in this episode are: 00:06:03 - Factors Contributing to Election Results 00:10:33 - Shifting Dynamics Among Young White Males 00:12:19 - Importance of Engaging with Fox News 00:13:28 - Inclusive Campaigning 00:15:21 - Impact of Cultural Themes on Election 00:20:09 - Role of Social Media in Shaping Views 00:21:06 - Cultural Shifts and Divisions 00:23:38 - The impact of technology on personal connections 00:27:10 - Impact of the election on women 00:29:48 - Using privilege for good 00:30:00 - Prioritization and self-interest in voting 00:34:21 - Tailoring communication for different audiences 00:35:00 - Importance of Shared Language and Positive Male Role Models 00:37:49 - Overcorrection in Society and Politics 00:39:25 - Trust in Election Votes "Go find the thing that grounds you in the things that you love and go find your corner of the world and make it a better place." - Mike Nellis Get involved in your local Democratic Party and work to improve it. This could include running for office or supporting candidates who align with your values. Stand up against misogyny and sexism in your community and call out inappropriate behavior when you see it. Use your privilege to help change systems that perpetuate discrimination. Engage in conversations with other men to address issues of sexism and misogyny. Organize calls or meetings to discuss and reject harmful attitudes and behaviors. Support positive male role models and engage in efforts to redefine masculinity. Encourage empathy, compassion, and respect in male communities. Reflect on your own privilege and consider how you can use it to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Take action to make your corner of the world a better place, whether through political engagement, community involvement, or personal advocacy. Listen to our EPS with Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, author of "Jesus and John Wayne," on toxic masculinity and US politics & religion. https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey there, do you ever feel like you're constantly hustling but not getting anywhere? You've been told to push through, to give, to hustle, and it's left you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. But what if there's a better way to lead with strength and wholeness without burning out? If you're ready to step into your full potential and lead from a place of energy and vitality, then you need to hear this. Let's dive in and discover a new approach to leadership that's truly transformative. In this episode, you will be able to: Unlock your potential with holistic leadership development strategies. Reclaim your balance and well-being by managing burnout and stress for leaders. Discover the powerful benefits of physical activity for stress relief. Expand your influence without sacrificing your well-being. Learn effective strategies for navigating leadership challenges as a woman. My special guest is April Díaz April Díaz is the visionary founder and CEO of Ezer and Co, boasting over 25 years of experience coaching C Suite executives, Olympians, pro athletes, and emerging leaders. With a focus on holistic leadership development strategies, April has redefined traditional leadership approaches. Her groundbreaking wholeness assessment and holistic leadership pathway are revolutionizing the way top businesses and organizations think about leadership. April's expertise in managing burnout and stress, as well as her insights on the benefits of physical activity for stress relief, positions her as a leading voice in the field. She is dedicated to enhancing leadership effectiveness and well-being through holistic practices, making her a sought-after expert in the industry. The key moments in this episode are: 00:01:54 - Holistic Leadership and Personal Background 00:09:16 - The Importance of Holistic Leadership 00:12:28 - The Future of Leadership 00:14:11 - Strength of Women in Different Cultures 00:14:20 - The Strength of Women in Leadership 00:15:29 - Women's Impact in Leadership and Threats to the Patriarchy 00:16:02 - Expanding Influence and Impact Holistically 00:19:33 - The Importance of Rest and Recovery in a Busy Life 00:25:42 - Avoiding Burnout as a Leader 00:26:58 - Setting Boundaries and Self-Awareness 00:27:44 - Metabolizing Stress 00:29:08 - Mindset Shift 00:32:28 - Embracing Beauty and Nature 00:36:27 - Invitation to Join Community 00:40:12 - Making a Difference through Connection 00:40:47 - Taking Control of Your Career Pivot 00:41:50 - The Power of Networking 00:43:01 - Gratitude and Community 00:43:49 - Closing Remarks Check out the free energy expanders exercise mentioned in the episode to help you recharge and show up as your best self. It's linked in the show notes, so don't skip this if you're serious about leveling up and leading from a place of strength and wholeness. Join the Patreon community, Difference Makers, to access an exclusive episode with April Díaz. In this episode, she shares raw and vulnerable insights about her health journey and the transformative experiences that have shaped her leadership. The link to join is in the show notes. If you're feeling stuck, uninspired, or over it in your career, consider signing up for the Mastering the Career Pivot masterclass. This course is designed to help you take control of your career pivot with confidence and land a job you love. You can find more information and sign up at loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot. Use code: DIFFERENCEMAKERS for 10% off https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Uncover the unexpected truth about abortion policies and their impact on women's healthcare. Dive deep into the nuanced conversation with surprising insights that challenge traditional viewpoints. This eye-opening discussion will leave you with a new perspective on a topic that's often oversimplified. Get ready to uncover the full truth and nothing but the truth, as we unravel the complexities of a crucial issue that affects women and girls. Stay tuned for a revelation that will change the way you approach voting and women's healthcare. "If you are a single issue voter around the issue of abortion, that this should be the topic you dig deeply into, if nothing else." - Lori Adams-Brown In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the impact of voting on abortion policies and how it affects women's rights. Uncover Kamala Harris' stance on women's healthcare and its potential impact. Explore the socioeconomic factors that play a role in affecting abortion rates. Challenge misconceptions around abortion and miscarriage care to gain a better understanding. Understand the influence of US elections on reproductive rights and the implications for women's healthcare. "Voting is something I take very seriously as a constituent and as somebody who really thinks and believes that policies that affect people matter." - Lori Adams-Brown Research more about the issue of abortion and its nuances, and listen to stories and perspectives from women and girls affected by this topic. Check out the She the People podcast by Amy Allison for insights into women of color in politics and their perspectives on important issues. Reach out to Lori Adams-Brown on Instagram for links to further research and information on the topic of abortion and women's healthcare. Consider the impact of voting decisions on justice, especially in relation to women's health and well-being. Reflect on the importance of leadership as a collective process and the significance of bringing different perspectives to the table when discussing complex issues like abortion. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - The Importance of Voting 00:02:45 - The Nuance of Abortion 00:09:09 - Reducing the Need for Abortion 00:11:03 - Addressing Root Causes 00:13:44 - Kamala Harris' Record 00:15:28 - Kamala Harris and Women's Rights Advocacy 00:16:28 - The Nuance of Abortion and Miscarriage Care 00:17:44 - Personal Experience with Miscarriage 00:20:17 - Justice and Voting Decisions 00:24:55 - Nuanced Conversations and Policy Implications 00:30:44 - Introduction to Amy Allison and She the People 00:31:21 - Importance of Informed Voting 00:31:46 - Nuanced Approach to Abortion 00:32:10 - Collective Leadership and World of Difference Podcast 00:32:57 - Advocating for Curiosity and Informed Decision-Making "We want the truth, the whole truth, nothing but the truth, so help me God." - Lori Adams-Brown https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you want to join a movement that's changing the face of American democracy and empowering women of color like never before? Imagine being part of electing the first woman of color as the President of the United States. I've got just the solution to help you achieve that. Stay tuned as I share the incredible impact of Aimee Allison's work and how you can be a part of this historic change. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore Kamala Harris's inspiring journey and its impact on the empowerment of women of color in American politics. Understand the pivotal role women of color play in shaping and strengthening American democracy. Discover Aimee Allison's significant contributions to advancing racial and gender justice for women of color. Uncover the importance of voting and political participation for women of color in driving meaningful change. Dive into She the People organization's impactful goals and achievements in empowering women of color in political activism. My special guest is Aimee Allison Aimee Allison, the founder and president of She the People, is a Democratic innovator and a champion of racial and gender justice. Renowned for her national efforts, Aimee has organized and moderated the nation's first presidential forum for women of color, attended by presidential candidates and more than 1,000 women from across the country, garnering major national press. She leverages media research and analysis to show the power of women of color electorate, increase voter engagement, and advocate for racial, economic, and gender justice. Aimee's writings in the New York Times, Newsweek, the Washington Post, and Essence magazine have made the definitive case that women of color are the saving graces of American democracy. With a background in history and education from Stanford University, Aimee Allison's work is firmly grounded in finding shared history and a common vision to create new political and cultural pathways to change, making her an inspiring and influential figure in the field. The key moments in this episode are: 00:03:37 - Aimee's Vision and Support from Women 00:06:04 - Reflecting on the Impact of Women of Color 00:09:41 - The Role of Women of Color in American Democracy 00:14:51 - Historic Moment of Kamala Harris' Nomination 00:15:10 - Feeling Ready and Proud as a Black Woman 00:17:32 - Troubling Rhetoric and Divisiveness 00:20:43 - Othering and Racism 00:23:53 - The Power of Women's Votes 00:29:56 - Redefining Strength and Patriotism 00:30:11 - Recognizing Kamala Harris' Experience 00:31:23 - Overcoming Misogynoir 00:32:48 - Appeal to Undecided Voters Visit Aimee Allison's website at aimeeallison.com to learn more about her work, her podcast She the People, and her speaking engagements such as this on NBC News Bay Area. Connect with Aimee Allison on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/aimeeallison to stay updated on her latest articles, interviews, and advocacy efforts. Follow She the People on Instagram Listen to Aimee Allison's podcast She the People to gain insights into important political and social issues, including the 2020 US Election and the impact of women of color in politics. Take action and vote in the upcoming election to support the values and leadership represented by Aimee Allison and other advocates for racial and gender justice. "You can put the first woman in the White House. You can put the first black woman in the White House. You can elect someone that will protect our reproductive rights, abortion rights. And you have the power." - Aimee Allison Podcast Social Media Links https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to just get over it or move on from a traumatic experience or oppressive situation. But despite your efforts, you're still struggling with overwhelming emotions and pain. You're not alone. In fact, ignoring or suppressing emotions can actually make things worse. It's time to take a different approach. Join us in this episode as we explore the profound impact of trauma and oppression on emotional health. We'll help you identify and effectively process emotions for personal growth, and show you the power of community support in overcoming emotional challenges. Let's heal together. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the significance of emotional health and well-being in our daily lives. Learn to identify and effectively process emotions for personal growth. Explore the profound effects of trauma and oppression on emotional well-being. Delve into the fascinating connection between faith and emotional health. Understand the role of community support in overcoming emotional challenges. My special guest is Becky Castle Miller. Let us introduce you to Becky Castle-Miller, a dedicated PhD student studying the New Testament at Wheaton College, mentored by Dr. Esau McCaulley. Her fascinating research in the Gospel of Luke explores the impact of trauma and oppression on emotions, providing invaluable insights into emotional health and healing. Serving as Discipleship Director at an international church in the Netherlands for nearly a decade, Becky is passionate about promoting emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being within faith communities. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Check out Beth Allison Barr's Substack for commentary on the recent events in the Southern Baptist Convention. Be wary of leaders who claim to support women but have a history of covering up abuse. Educate yourself on the latest scientific research on emotions to better understand the emotions mentioned in the Bible. Consider the impact of trauma on emotions when studying the Gospel. Look into Pete Scazzero's book, Emotionally Healthy Discipleship, for guidance on emotional health. Practice more collective lament and self-reflection as a church to address past and current complicity in abuse and systemic issues like racism and patriarchy. Encourage pastors to gain a deeper understanding of emotions and trauma to better serve their congregations. Seek out resources and tools for emotional, mental, and spiritual health, such as counseling or therapy, support groups, and self-help books. Creating Change in Patriarchal Systems Patriarchal systems often perpetuate unhealthy norms around emotional expression and communication. To create positive change, individuals must be willing to reject the culture that socialized them and learn new ways to express emotions, listen to others, and understand the values they reflect. Such changes can challenge existing power structures and promote a more equitable environment where all individuals are encouraged to express themselves emotionally, regardless of their gender. Becky Castle Miller argues that creating change in emotional health within patriarchal systems is essential and possible, countering common narratives that separate rationality and emotionality. By embracing the idea that rationality and emotionality are part of the same process, Castle Miller's work provides a strong foundation for reforming faith-based communities to create emotionally supportive environments where everyone can thrive. When we use emotions and interpret them, especially around gender and culture, in ways that are not honest and not informed by multiple perspectives, we get ourselves in the situations that we're currently in. - Becky Castle Miller The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction, 00:01:22 - Emotional Health in the Church, 00:06:47 - Abuse and Trauma, 00:10:20 - Research on Emotions in the Gospel of Luke, 00:14:55 - Different Expressions of Emotions, 00:17:15 - The Secular View of Emotion, 00:18:39 - Emotion as a Constructed Concept, 00:22:03 - Emotional Abuse and Gender, 00:27:35 - Gendered Emotion and Emotional Maturity, 00:30:46 - Creating Change in Patriarchal Systems, 00:34:33 - The Need for Change in Faith-Based Communities, 00:35:18 - The Threat to Christian Patriarchy, 00:40:27 - Writing for the Church, 00:43:44 - Emotional Health and IFS, 00:47:22 - Self-Leadership and Curiosity, 00:50:49 - Tips for Overcoming Obstacles, 00:51:58 - Joining the Difference Makers Community, 00:53:24 - Prioritizing Emotional Health, 00:54:31 - Taking Care of Yourself, Prioritizing Emotional Health Emotional health should be prioritized in the same way physical and mental well-being are valued. Steps to achieving and maintaining emotional health include practicing self-care, seeking support from friends and family, and pursuing professional therapy when needed. Recognizing and confronting emotional struggles and obstacles enables personal growth and emotional resilience in the face of adversity. During the podcast, Becky Castle Miller highlights the necessity of self-leadership and self-compassion in promoting emotional health. Both Castle Miller and Lori Adams-Brown emphasize the importance of acknowledging emotional struggles, as well as the role of community in supporting individuals throughout their emotional journeys. Castle Miller's work sheds light on the pressing need to prioritize emotional health, especially in faith-based communities, to provide a safe and supportive space for everyone. Gendered Emotion and Emotional Maturity Emotions are often social constructs that differ between genders, with women typically being more emotionally expressive, while men are taught to suppress their emotions. In the podcast, Castle Miller discusses how women are frequently tightly emotionally controlled in specific cultures and contexts, particularly within faith-based spaces. Encouraging emotional maturity and expression for all individuals, regardless of gender, empowers people to acknowledge and process their feelings, ultimately leading to improved emotional well-being. From her perspective, Becky Castle Miller emphasizes that faith-based spaces have a long way to go when it comes to addressing emotional health. She encourages men to learn from women's socialization and embrace emotional expression, allowing their voices to be fully heard. Castle Miller's insights underscore the importance of bridging this emotional gap between genders, fostering a healthier environment for everyone in faith-based communities. I think that either way, we pay a price and we get our moments to choose. - Becky Castle Miller The pipeline works for women. The emotionally healthy pipeline works better for us and we can help, but they aren't letting women. This is very dangerous for the church and for any emotional abuse that can systemically be covered up going forward. - Becky Castle Miller Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:02 - Introduction, Lori introduces the podcast and the guest for the episode, Becky Castle Miller, a PhD student at Wheaton College studying emotions in the scriptures. 00:01:22 - Emotional Health in the Church, Lori asks Becky about her perspective on recent events in the Southern Baptist Convention and how emotional health is important in faith spaces. 00:06:47 - Abuse and Trauma, Becky shares her personal experience with abuse and trauma and how it intersects with emotional health and her research on emotions in the Gospel of Luke. 00:10:20 - Research on Emotions in the Gospel of Luke, Becky discusses her multidisciplinary dissertation on emotions in the Gospel of Luke and how trauma and oppression may impact the emotions expressed in the text. 00:14:55 - Different Expressions of Emotions, Lori and Becky talk about how emotions are expressed differently in different cultures and how emotions are currently being addressed in the church, including the call for more lament. 00:17:15 - The Secular View of Emotion, Becky Castle Miller discusses how pastors often embrace Enlightenment rationality while condemning secularism, yet draw their ideas about emotion from secular philosophy rather than from Scripture or current scientific views. 00:18:39 - Emotion as a Constructed Concept, Emotions are constructed from concepts, meaning that our minds evaluate a situation and choose and construct the right emotion that fits it. Each culture has its own set of emotion concepts, and emotion and rationality are part of the same process. 00:22:03 - Emotional Abuse and Gender, Women are typically socialized to be more emotionally healthy than men, but patriarchal cultures force women to tightly control their emotions and distrust them. This results in women being dismissed when they express emotions, while men are allowed to be demonstrably emotional. 00:27:35 - Gendered Emotion and Emotional Maturity, Emotions are socially constructed, and women are socialized into learning to notice, identify, and name their emotions, while men are not. Therefore, women have more emotional granularity than men. Men can have just as much emotional maturity if they learn these skills. 00:30:46 - Creating Change in Patriarchal Systems, To create change in patriarchal systems, women need to reject the culture that socialized them and socialize themselves in new ways, where they learn to express and name their emotions and advocate passionately. This will result in rejection by the patriarchal system. 00:34:33 - The Need for Change in Faith-Based Communities, Becky Castle Miller discusses the need for change in faith-based communities and institutions to address abuse and complicity. She highlights the importance of courage and prophetic voices in speaking out against injustice and promoting restoration and flourishing for all. 00:35:18 - The Threat to Christian Patriarchy, Becky Castle Miller talks about the threat that the expression of women's emotions poses to Christian patriarchy. She references the emotional control that Christine Blasey Ford had to exhibit during the Brett Kavanaugh hearings and the complicity of institutions in protecting themselves. 00:40:27 - Writing for the Church, Becky Castle Miller discusses the importance of making scholarship accessible to everyday Christians. She talks about her mentors, Scott McKnight and Isa McAuley, who write solid scholarship that is understandable for lay Christians. She emphasizes the need to write for the Church and make an impact on scholarship. 00:43:44 - Emotional Health and IFS, Becky Castle Miller talks about the importance of emotional health and the Internal Family Systems (IFS) framework. She shares her experience in the Kineo cohort and mentions that she is an IFS practitioner who does emotion coaching from an IFS lens. She encourages people to be curious about their emotions and process them non-judgmentally. 00:47:22 - Self-Leadership and Curiosity, The host encourages listeners to explore their own emotions with self-compassion and curiosity, and to seek support from others if 00:50:49 - Tips for Overcoming Obstacles, In this chapter, Lori asks Becky for tips on overcoming obstacles in life. Becky explains the importance of acknowledging emotional health and prioritizing happiness. She also invites listeners to join the Difference Makers community and engage with other listeners. 00:51:58 - Joining the Difference Makers Community, Lori encourages listeners to join the Difference Makers community, where they can engage with other listeners and access exclusive podcast episodes. She also explains the different membership levels and rewards, including the chance to vote on upcoming topics and receive a free mug. 00:53:24 - Prioritizing Emotional Health, As the emotional health series continues, Lori reminds listeners of the importance of prioritizing emotional health and working towards happiness. She teases upcoming guests, including Jocelyn Chong, a corporate executive coach from Australia. 00:54:31 - Taking Care of Yourself, Lori encourages listeners to take care of themselves emotionally and reflect on the topics discussed in the episode. She thanks listeners for tuning in and engaging with the podcast, and encourages them to continue making a difference in their own lives and communities. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Join our Difference Makers community, and enjoy exclusive content. J Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does it ever feel like you're stuck in a cycle, trying to heal from something that's left you feeling broken? You've probably been told to just push through it, but that's left you feeling even more lost and alone. It's time to break free from the pain and find real healing. Let's uncover the way forward together. "You are worth saving. You are worthy of a beautiful life and having your dream and being a loving person because we are all created out of love." - Cindy Benezra Cindy Benezra, an accomplished author, speaker, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and advocate, brings a wealth of personal experience and insight to the critical conversation surrounding trauma recovery. As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, Cindy's compelling memoir, Under the Orange Blossoms, provides a raw and courageous account of her healing journey. Her dedication to promoting awareness and initiating meaningful dialogues about the impact of sexual trauma reflects her unwavering commitment to empowering survivors. With a multicultural background shaped by diverse nationalities and global experiences, Cindy offers a unique perspective on navigating the complexities of trauma recovery. Her story serves as an inspiration, offering hope and valuable insights to those seeking healing and empowerment after similar experiences. Discover effective strategies for healing from childhood sexual abuse. Gain insights into mental health awareness and trauma recovery. Understand the profound impact of sexual trauma on mental health. Explore the benefits of therapy for abuse survivors (if you need a therapist, get 10% off your first month at Better Help with this link.) Learn how to navigate life as a third culture individual. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Betterhelp and World Mental Health Day 00:01:17 - Cindy's Cultural Background and Identity 00:03:38 - Writing as a Healing Process 00:10:31 - Sharing Personal Trauma 00:13:24 - Overcoming Shame and Healing 00:13:46 - Overcoming Societal Pressures 00:16:06 - Difficulty in Reporting Abuse 00:19:53 - Recognizing the Reality of Abuse 00:24:42 - Self-realization and Accountability 00:26:54 - Sharing Wisdom and Providing Hope 00:28:03 - The Importance of Self-Love and Support 00:28:28 - Rebuilding and Worthiness 00:29:26 - Opening Up and Sharing Stories 00:30:29 - Healing and Mental Health Awareness Check out Cindy Benezra's book Under the Orange Blossoms available in most bookstores for an in-depth look at her journey and experiences. Visit www.Cindytalks.com to connect with Cindy, access her YouTube videos, and learn more about her work and advocacy. Explore the resources provided by RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) for support and assistance for survivors of abuse. Consider seeking professional help from a therapist or mental health professional to address any trauma or mental health challenges you may be facing. Connect with Lori & the Difference Makers: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sheila Wray Gregoire on She Deserves Better: Redefining Women's Worth Get ready to delve into the fascinating world of sex, marriage, and the impact of messaging on girls' lives in this episode of A World of Difference. Host Lori Adams-Brown is joined by Sheila Wray Gregoire, an acclaimed Canadian author, speaker, and the brains behind Bare Marriage. Sheila's new book, She Deserves Better, is the talk of the town, an insightful read based on extensive research on the messages girls are exposed to and how they shape their lives. But what makes Sheila stand out is her no-nonsense, hilarious take on sex and marriage, always aligning her conversations with biblical principles. Tune in as she chats with Lori about her latest work, her passion for her craft, and ways to live a fulfilling life. If you're looking for a fun yet incredibly insightful listen, then this episode is for you. Get ready to discover a new world of difference with Lori Adams-Brown, host of the A World of Difference Podcast! This episode features award-winning author, sought-after speaker, and the face behind the website Bare Marriage, Sheila Wray Gregoire. With her newest book, She Deserves Better, Sheila and her team have been conducting extensive research on how messages given to girls have affected their lives, particularly in school. If you're eager to learn about research conclusions and insights that can help you move forward in life in a healthier way, then this episode is perfect for you.  Sheila's passion for changing evangelical conversations about sex and marriage to align with biblical principles is contagious, and her insights are guaranteed to change the way you think about these topics. If you've ever wondered how female students are impacted by what they read in school, you absolutely cannot miss this episode! Join Lori and Sheila as they dive into an informative and engaging conversation about how faith, sexuality, and education intersect. This podcast episode promises to be compelling, thought-provoking, and galvanizing. You won't want to miss out on this one! Tune in now to A World of Difference Podcast, and discover the world of difference for yourself! Timestamps [00:00:02] Sheila Ray Gregoire on "She Deserves Better Episode Links Baremarriage.com Here are three invaluable tips that girls can learn from 'She Deserves Better': 1. Be your own hero – Sheila's research shows that many young girls tend to rely on external validation to feel good about themselves. In her book, she stresses the importance of being your own hero and learning to love yourself for who you are. 2. Speak up – Girls are often taught to keep quiet and not make a fuss, but Sheila's research shows that speaking up is crucial in today's world. Whether it's about your career, your relationships or your own well-being, it's important to let your voice be heard. 3. Embrace vulnerability – Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but Sheila's research shows that it can be a strength. By being vulnerable and open, girls can connect with others on a deeper level and build stronger, more meaningful relationships. If you want to learn more about how you can take control of your life and be the best version of yourself, then you need to listen to the latest episode of A World of Different's Podcast featuring Sheila Wray Gregoire. Her insights and advice are invaluable and can help you transform your life for the better. The Great Sex Rescue: How Sheila Wray Gregoire is Changing the Conversation About Sex and Marriage in the Evangelical Community In a previous episode of A World of Different's Podcast, Sheila Wray Gregoire talked about her book 'The Great Sex Rescue,' which was a groundbreaking study of the evangelical messages about sex that are taught to young couples. In her latest book, 'She Deserves Better,' Sheila continues to challenge the status quo and provide readers with tools to empower themselves. According to Sheila, "the messages that are being taught in the evangelical community around sex and marriage are often damaging and can lead to some serious problems down the road." Her research shows that couples who have been taught these messages are more likely to struggle with intimacy and communication in their relationships. Here are three key takeaways that couples can learn from Sheila's research: 1. Communication is the key – When it comes to sex and marriage, communication is crucial. Couples need to be open and honest with each other about their needs and desires, and be willing to work together to achieve them. 2. Do away with shame – Shame is a major roadblock to intimacy in relationships. Sheila's research shows that many couples struggle with feelings of shame around sex and marriage, which can prevent them from fully enjoying the experience. 3. Embrace the gift of sex – For many couples in the evangelical community, sex is seen as a duty rather than a gift. Sheila's research shows that couples who view sex as a gift are more likely to have fulfilling and satisfying relationships. If you want to learn more about how you can transform your relationship and have a more fulfilling sex life, then you need to listen to the latest episode of A World of Different's Podcast featuring Sheila Wray Gregoire. Her insights and advice are invaluable and can help you build a stronger, more meaningful relationship with your partner. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, for as little as $5 a month, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does this sound familiar? Have you been told that the key to finding your next role is to simply upload your resume and wait for the perfect opportunity? Yet, there you are, feeling stuck and frustrated, with no results in sight. It's time to break free from ineffective job search strategies and discover a new approach that actually works. Let's dive into resilience strategies for job loss and recovery and uncover how to land your dream role. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering Executive Recruitment Strategies: Unlock the secrets to attracting top talent and building a high-performing team. Embracing Career Transition and Resilience: Discover how to bounce back stronger and more confident after a career setback. Unveiling the Benefits of Sabbaticals and Time Off: Explore the rejuvenating power of taking a break and its impact on professional growth. Crafting a Personal Brand with Podcasts: Learn how to leverage the podcasting platform to amplify your professional presence and reach a wider audience. Navigating Job Loss and Recovery Strategies: Uncover effective tactics for overcoming job loss and charting a successful path to your next opportunity. My special guest is Kristen Revell. Kristen Revell is a powerhouse in the executive search and recruitment field, boasting over two decades of expertise. As the President and Founder of The Revell Group, she has been instrumental in delivering tailored talent solutions for clients seeking top-tier professionals. Kristen's extensive career includes leadership roles at Robert Half, where she showcased her prowess in business development, strategic accounts, and leadership training. Besides her professional accomplishments, Kristen's ventures outside the corporate realm include hosting the podcasts, Curiosity with Kristen and Where Next Travel with Kristen and Carol, where she delves into inspiring conversations about business transformations and travel experiences. Her passion for uplifting and inspiring others shines through in her work, making her a trusted advisor and a captivating voice in the industry. The key moments in this episode are: 00:08:12 - Moving Abroad and Expatriate Opportunities 00:12:19 - Job Search Strategies 00:13:04 - Career goals and company research 00:14:30 - Thorough evaluation before joining a company 00:16:25 - Personal well-being and work-life balance 00:19:28 - Identifying toxic work environments 00:24:00 - Recognizing burnout and the need for self-care 00:25:17 - The Challenges of Being a Difference Maker 00:26:27 - Finding the Right Company Culture 00:30:19 - Utilizing the Services of a Recruiter 00:35:05 - Making a Difference in People's Lives 00:36:58 - The Cost of Recruitment Services 00:37:14 - Importance of Clarifying Payment Expectations 00:37:40 - The Importance of Taking Time Off 00:42:08 - Favorite Travel Destinations 00:47:07 - Kristen's Impact in Career Transition Connect with Kristen Revell on LinkedIn for career advice and opportunities Check out Kristen's podcasts Curiosity with Kristen and Where Next? for inspiring stories and travel insights. Visit Kristen's website to learn more about her work and how she can help you in your career Join the Patreon community for exclusive content and deeper insights from Kristen Revell: https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Tune in next week to hear from Julie Castro Abrams, founder and president of How Women Lead, for more inspiring conversations about making a difference. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the rise of Christian nationalism and the spread of harmful ideologies, then you are not alone! The misinformation and propaganda being disseminated can make it feel like an uphill battle. The struggle to dismantle these harmful narratives and combat Christian nationalism can be frustrating and disheartening. It's time to take action and implement strategies that actually work. Let's work together to dismantle these harmful ideologies and create a better future for all. In this episode, you will be able to: Uncover effective strategies for combatting Christian nationalism and propaganda. Learn how to navigate religious topics and promote gender equality in podcasts. Celebrate podcast milestones and the supportive community. Gain insights into addressing propaganda My special guest is Scott Coley Scott Coley, an accomplished scholar who holds a Ph.D. in philosophy from Purdue University, a Master’s degree in systematic theology from the University of Notre Dame, and a B.A. in philosophy and English from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His research interests include philosophy of religion, moral epistemology and political philosophy. He serves on the philosophy faculty at Mount St. Mary’s University, where he teaches courses in moral and political philosophy, history of philosophy and logic. His newly released book is: Ministers of Propaganda: Truth, Power, and the Ideology of the Religious Right. Follow Scott on: Instagram Twitter The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing Betterhelp 00:01:41 - Celebrating 200th Episode 00:06:20 - Impactful Our Story Series 00:09:54 - Building Connections 00:12:46 - Future Direction and Listener Engagement 00:15:25 - Embracing Different Perspectives 00:16:44 - Gratitude for Listeners 00:19:09 - Discussing Scott Coley's Book 00:22:49 - The Motivation to Write the Book 00:29:27 - Rapid Political Developments 00:30:51 - Backlash against women in leadership 00:36:32 - Ideology and hierarchy 00:38:05 - Christian nationalism 00:43:40 - Intersection of authoritarianism and abuse 00:47:35 - White evangelical theology and authoritarianism 00:48:21 - The Relationship Between Truth and Power 00:49:26 - Forms of Propaganda 00:55:15 - Misuse of Scripture 00:57:13 - Reframing Concepts in Politics and Religion 00:58:49 - Practical Steps for Addressing Propaganda 01:04:53 - Embracing Differences in Views 01:05:25 - Global Need for Dignity and Respect 01:06:09 - Engaging with the Audience 01:08:07 - Decoding Propaganda and Fear-Mongering 01:13:20 - Community Engagement and Gratitude  https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you ready for the unexpected? Dive into the world of adoptee-centered approaches with Cameron Lee Small, a licensed clinical counselor and transracial adoptee. Get ready to be moved as we unravel the layers of grief, loss, and empowerment in the adoptee journey. But that's not all—there's an exclusive deeper conversation waiting for you. Join us in the Difference Maker community to explore how you can be part of making a difference. It's a special place, and we'd love to have you there. So, get ready to join the conversation and make a difference together. Are you in? In this episode, you will be able to: Embracing Grief and Loss: Discover ways to navigate the complex emotions of grief and loss in adoption, fostering empathy and understanding for your child's experience. Impact of Transracial Adoption: Explore the profound impact of transracial adoption on an individual's identity, gaining insights to support your child's unique journey. Mental Health Support: Learn how to provide crucial mental health support for adoptees, fostering a nurturing environment for their emotional well-being. Adoptee-Centered Approaches: Delve into adoptee-centered approaches that prioritize your child's needs and experiences, nurturing a deeper connection within your family. Building Empathy: Gain valuable insights into building empathy within your adoptive family, creating a supportive and understanding environment for your child's identity exploration. My special guest is Cameron Lee Small Meet Cameron Lee Small, a licensed clinical counselor, transracial adoptee, and mental health advocate based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Having been born in South Korea and adopted into a family in the United States, Cameron brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to the adoption landscape. With a background in psychology and counseling psychology, he has channeled his insights into authoring a memoir, "This is Why I Was Adopted," which serves as an interactive workbook for adoptees and families. Cameron's expertise extends to delivering adoption-informed essays, public speaking, and training sessions on adoptee-centered approaches. His work delves deep into the mental health needs of adoptees and their families, offering a compassionate and informed perspective that resonates with those navigating the complexities of adoption. His private practice, Therapy Redeemed, specializes in the mental health needs of adoptees and their families wherever they may be in their own adoption journey. His newly released book is The Adoptee's Journey: From Loss and Trauma to Healing and Empowerment. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction and Sponsorship by Betterhelp (10% off your first month of therapy) 00:01:42 - Cameron's Personal Journey as an Adoptee 00:02:32 - Cameron's Newly-Releasing Book 00:09:41 - Navigating Difficult Conversations About Adoption and Race 00:14:47 - Supporting Adoptees in Navigating Identity and Attachment 00:16:10 - The Impact of Adoption on Identity Development 00:18:09 - Challenges of International Adoption Narratives 00:21:25 - Connecting with Birth Culture 00:25:54 - Support and Empowerment in Adoption 00:27:41 - Understanding the Impact of Adoption 00:31:31 - Exploring Identity and Ambiguous Loss 00:33:13 - Reconnecting with Birth Family 00:36:40 - Ongoing Journey of Reunion and Adoption 00:38:41 - Unresolved Grief and Parenting Strategies 00:46:19 - Supporting Adoptees Throughout Life 00:47:09 - Gratitude for the Guest 00:47:56 - Understanding Grief in Adoption 00:48:54 - Centering the Adoptee's Experience Join to access exclusive content for as little as $5 a month. Lori Adams-Brown https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the unexpected impact of faith in the legal profession with attorney Robert Callahan. His new book 'Fire in the Whole' challenges the norms of white Christianity and its impact on racial dynamics. But there's a twist – find out how his legal practice integrates faith in a way that's both surprising and enlightening. Stay tuned for a revealing conversation that's sure to leave you thinking. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the transformative power of integrating faith in legal practice. Explore the crucial role of legal support in addressing workplace abuse. Uncover the impact of white Christianity on complex racial dynamics. Learn effective strategies for overcoming spiritual trauma in the legal profession. Navigate the intricate intersection of politics and religion in modern America. My special guest is Robert Callahan Robert is an author and accomplished attorney, at Callahan & King, PLLC in Waco, Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Gonzaga University and a Juris Doctorate at Baylor University School of Law where he teaches a course entitled Integrating Faith and Legal Practice. In 2020, Robert was named Lawyer of the Year by the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers' Association. With an undeniable talent for blending humor and insight, he tackles the issues of law, race, and religion. Robert’s book FIRE IN THE WHOLE: Embracing Our Righteous Anger with White Christianity and Reclaiming Our Wholeness is available for pre-order. Follow Robert at: TikTok1: https://www.tiktok.com/@rcallahanwaco2 TikTok2: https://www.tiktok.com/@rcallahanwaco3 Insta:  https://www.instagram.com/rcallahan_waco/?hl=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/rcallahanwaco?s=21 The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:00:25 - Betterhelp Sponsorship 00:01:35 - Introduction to Robert Callahan 00:02:19 - Reaction to Potential First Woman President 00:11:15 - Robert's Experience with Right-Wing Christianity 00:15:31 - The Dehumanizing Effects of Fundamentalism 00:16:12 - Experience in the Largest Muslim Nation 00:17:28 - The Packaging of Fundamentalism 00:20:40 - The Recruitment of College-Age Students 00:25:28 - White Christianity and Nationalism 00:32:02 - Lack of acknowledgment for Black deaths 00:34:38 - Tokenization and dehumanization 00:35:14 - Misogynoir and racism 00:37:28 - Foundational aspects of racism 00:45:25 - Integrating faith in legal practice 00:46:45 - The Importance of a Mission Beyond Self 00:47:55 - Mission of Justice and Fairness 00:49:35 - Embracing Righteous Anger and Reclaiming Wholeness 00:51:32 - Challenging Conversations and Mutual Understanding 01:00:56 - Fighting Abuse in Churches and Workplace Environments 01:02:04 - Introduction and Appreciation 01:02:50 - Embracing Righteous Anger 01:03:14 - Observations from Other Countries 01:04:15 - 200th Episode Celebration 01:05:12 - Farewell and Call to Action https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com (Leave a voicemail to be potentially featured in our 200th episode.) https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transform toxic cultures and pivot towards emotional health as authors Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer guide churches and institutions through a gritty and transformative process that challenges the quick-fix mentality in creating cultures of goodness. It's gritty and messy, not flashy and glitzy. Making a difference requires deep, transformative change. - Scot McKnight In this episode, you will be able to: Master the art of fostering emotionally nourishing spaces inside your church or institution. Explore the influence of power and its four prepositions in sparking timely institutional transformations. Understand the vital role of character development in shaping healthier and more efficient environments. Get acquainted with thoughtful strategies and dynamic tools that promise positive change within your organization. Comprehend the intricate process of transformation, emphasizing the importance of long-term accountability and ownership. My special guests are Scot McKnight, Laura Barringer Today’s conversation features Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer, a dynamic father-daughter duo. Scot’s knowledge of the Bible and theology is deeply respected, and his role as the Chair of New Testament at Northern Seminary further enhances that authority. His extensive bibliography includes favorites like “The King Jesus Gospel” and insightful commentaries on James Galatians and First Peter. Laura, an elementary school teacher by trade, has found her voice in writing. She has not only co-authored with Scot but is also making strides in public speaking. Together, their latest book, “Pivot”, explores transformative cultural change in churches and institutions. The resources mentioned in this episode are: It's not about the next biggest hit that we're addicted to. It's about deep work that walks through shame and does repair. - Laura Barringer Purchase A Church Called Tov book Purchase Pivot book Check out Dr. Scot McKnight's other books, such as The King Jesus Gospel and his commentaries on James, Galatians, and 1 Peter Explore the Second Testament Bible translation by Dr. Scot McKnight Learn more about the New Testament chair at Northern Seminary Consider booking Laura Barrringer for speaking engagements Check out the Christian Book Award finalist nomination for A Church Called Tove Explore the concept of Darvo mentioned in the podcast Learn about the three P's in Pivot: priorities, practices, and powers Focus on character development in churches and institutions Take character tests and assessments mentioned in the book Consider the power dynamics in your own church or organization Reflect on how power is used and misused Learn from the example of Oak Hills Church in California Explore Dallas Willard's ideas of transformation Consider reducing church size and budget to focus on transformation Understand the importance of empathy and care in leadership We are delighted to have Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer joining us today. Scot is a revered figure in the world of theology, not just as the chair of New Testament at Northern Seminary, but also as an established author introducing new perspectives on the Christian faith. His latest bible translation, The Second Testament, has been positively received by the community. Laura, Scot’s daughter, is equally accomplished. An elementary school teacher by profession, Laura’s influence extends to the written word. She uses her experiences and insights in extending conversations around church culture. Their collective wisdom in faith-based discussions is mirrored in their latest collaboration, “Pivot”. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction, 00:03:04 - Overview of "Pivot," 00:08:59 - Organizing the Book, 00:10:41 - Addressing Darvo, 00:12:07 - Priorities, 00:16:50 - Understanding Different Types of Power, 00:18:21 - The Importance of Power in Institutions, 00:19:39 - The Role of Character in Business and Leadership, 00:22:00 - Using the Tove Tool for Assessment, 00:27:15 - Challenges in Implementing Change, 00:33:59 - Distinguishing Change, Shift, and Transformation, 00:34:36 - Building a Coalition for Transformation, 00:35:38 - The Long-Term Process of Transformation, 00:36:46 - The Complexity of Transformation, 00:40:17 - Taking Action and Making a Difference, We need character. We need people first. Emotion is good, and it can be used for evil or good. - Scott McKnight Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:02 - Introduction, Lori Adams Brown introduces the podcast and welcomes back Scott McKnight and Laura Behringer, authors of "A Church Called Tove" and "Pivot." She discusses the impact of their previous book and the anticipation for the new release. 00:03:04 - Overview of "Pivot," Scott and Laura explain that "Pivot" is a response to the questions they received after "A Church Called Tove." They discuss the importance of transforming toxic cultures and how their book provides practical steps for change. 00:08:59 - Organizing the Book, Scott and Laura discuss the challenge of organizing the book due to the interconnectedness of the chapters. They explain how they developed the priorities, practices, and powers framework for transforming toxic cultures. 00:10:41 - Addressing Darvo, Lori brings up the concept of Darvo (deny, attack, reverse victim and offender) and its relevance to the conversation. Scott and Laura acknowledge the difficulty of navigating toxic cultures and emphasize the need for practical guidance, which their book provides. 00:12:07 - Priorities, Scott introduces the importance of character development as a priority in transforming toxic cultures. He explains how focusing on character revolutionizes institutions that prioritize productivity and numerical growth. Laura adds that this applies beyond churches to other fields like education. 00:16:50 - Understanding Different Types of Power, Scot McKnight discusses the different types of power and how they can impact organizations. He highlights power over, power to, power with, and power for as the four prepositions that define how power is used and how it can transform a culture. 00:18:21 - The Importance of Power in Institutions, Scot and Laura emphasize the significance of power in institutions, such as churches and businesses. They believe that power should be used for the good of others and that institutions need to consider power as a priority in order to transform their culture. 00:19:39 - The Role of Character in Business and Leadership, The conversation shifts to the importance of character in business and leadership. They discuss how character can make or break a business and the significance of qualities like empathy and listening in creating emotionally healthy environments. 00:22:00 - Using the Tove Tool for Assessment, Scot and Laura introduce the Tove Tool, an assessment they developed to help organizations assess where they stand in terms of people-first culture, justice, empathy, and truth-telling. They believe that organizations should assess their strengths and weaknesses in order to work towards creating emotionally healthy cultures. 00:27:15 - Challenges in Implementing Change, The conversation delves into the challenges faced when implementing change in organizations, particularly in churches. They discuss how decision-makers and leaders play a crucial role in initiating change, but also acknowledge the difficulty of confronting toxic patterns and the fear of retaliation. 00:33:59 - Distinguishing Change, Shift, and Transformation, Transformation is the deepest level of change and requires time, effort, and buy-in from both top-down and bottom-up. Many churches work from the top-down, but building a coalition and fostering listening and learning is crucial for true transformation. 00:34:36 - Building a Coalition for Transformation, Building a coalition involves engaging leaders and stakeholders in conversations to create ownership and investment. Persuasion alone won't work. It takes time to build a coalition that extends to the entire system. 00:35:38 - The Long-Term Process of Transformation, Transformation is not a quick fix. It requires ongoing work, building small groups and expanding to larger circles, and taking the time to listen and learn from one another. Patience and commitment are essential. 00:36:46 - The Complexity of Transformation, Transformation is not a one-size-fits-all process. It requires different approaches and strategies depending on the specific context. There is no easy solution, but with dedication and collaboration, change is possible. 00:40:17 - Taking Action and Making a Difference, It's up to individuals and communities to take action and make a difference. Reading and discussing the book, joining communities, and acknowledging the problems in our cultures are important steps towards creating positive change. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Celebrate the courage to explore, learn and grow with empathy, as TCKs show us how to thrive with multiple dimensions of belonging. "The biggest tool in our tool bag is something that we're good at, but we need to focus on more so that we can use it to our advantage, and that would be empathy. So being very open, one thing I find, and I found this to myself, and I have to work on it every day, is we are so multicultural. Right. We do all the things, we've been all the places, we think we got it right. But there's so much..." Doni Aldine Doni Aldine is a globally mobile, Afro Latina and first generation North American who is passionate about creating community for cross cultural populations. She is the editor and founder of Culturs magazine and a TCK scholar who speaks around the globe on the subject. Doni Aldine was born in New York City and at two weeks old, she started her international travel. Growing up in seven different cultures on five continents, she developed an immense appreciation for cultural diversity. She became a TCK scholar and Editor-in-Chief of Culturs magazine, which celebrates 21st century cultural diversity. Doni taught her students to break their lenses and think outside of themselves, and she emphasizes the importance of having the courage to learn about different cultures and empathy to understand them. Through her own experience, Doni has learned that we all have the power to choose who we are and to embrace all of who we are. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How TCKs Develop Empathy Through Cross-Cultural Experiences 2. Exploring the Dimensionality of TCKs and Their Families 3. Understanding the Benefits and Challenges of Being a TCK in the 21st Century. Resources: https://www.cultursmag.com/ Other episodes you'll enjoy: EPS 122 EPS 119 EPS 112 Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Website: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://www.podpage.com/dashboard/a-world-of-difference/reviews/ Chapter Summaries: [00:00:02] The Aworld of Difference is a podcast for those who are different and want to make a difference. This week Lori Adams Brown talks about her new job in Silicon Valley. Change means the good, the bad and the I don't want to talk about it. [00:00:48] Doni Aldine identifies as a Third Culture kid, a TCK, because of her experiences growing up in multiple cultures. She's passionate about creating community for cross cultural populations. She brings a nuanced conversation around the beautiful aspects of Black history. [00:06:34] It's hard sometimes to help monoculturals understand. I focus on dimensionality, something that I realize about being a TCK because everyone's t cknus is very different. The biggest tool in our tool bag is something we're good at, but we need to focus on more. That would be empathy. [00:11:33] As a TCK, you have to learn how to observe and learn a culture by watching what people do. There's so much observation required to fit in or assimilate. You have to have the courage to put your foot in it. [00:16:42] In the last two years, I've seen a huge shift in how many people know what TCK is. It's about belonging. We don't need to be rooted in one country. Most TCKs love that our identity does not come from one place. [00:22:43] Research shows that TCKs have a break between a physical, mental or emotional break between age 27 and like, 45. Unresolved grief is the thing that causes TCKS the most pain over time. We've had to find ways to connect to our people. [00:26:36] We would just like to see more diversity of even Asian American actors. Why is it so often when you have an Asian in a role in a movie or a TV show, so much of it is very cliche and very stereotypical. It takes quite a while before it's truly mainstream. [00:32:09] How would you say that emotional intelligence is key for diversity and inclusion? People are starting to embrace going more deeply into diversity, inclusion and belonging. There's also social justice, I feel. Intelligence can help us take it to the next level. [00:38:52] One of the things you love about the Bay Area is a total of TCKs of all varieties. On the World of Difference podcast, one of our highest values is getting as many perspectives as possible. Everyone can be an ally, everyone can elevate, and together we all make a difference. [00:43:12] The hidden diversity is who we are beneath the surface that may not be seen and adds to the conversation. Being a TCK is part of that hidden diversity. What are some of the key parts that really have resonated with you or your students? [00:47:21] Most male, majority female, PC or US Minority. Person of color. Who do you think would be second best? The last one. You are the first to get that. [00:48:12] The person who typically understands the concepts the best is the male, the white male who comes into my class. Versus the worst one is typically the minority US Population. We need to be champions like you and your husband are champions for those things. The pain is in the learning, and the learning is in a quiet moment. [00:54:20] The next year of Cultures is a year of Latin America. Who's the change maker in your life that you admire? Definitely my parents, my mom and my dad. And my father in death, actually, and as he fought cancer, he really inspired me. [00:56:26] Omi Osaka and Simone Biles have spoken out about mental health. I love that this generation is so concerned about our health. Gen Z and Jen Alpha challenge you for real. That's the superpower of this generation. [01:01:58] Doni Aldine: In this Change series, we're going to have some pretty exciting guests coming up. They'll talk about how to deal with unwanted change, expected and unexpected change. If this show has impacted you, or if any of our shows have, to reach out. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join us on Patreon If you haven't joined us yet on Patreon, this is your official invitation to join us as we go deeper in the conversation. patreon.com/aworldofdifference Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Hannah Nation's podcast episode, uncover the compelling central conflict between the Chinese house churches' global identity and the Chinese authorities' nationalist agenda, as the Hannah Nation explores the idea of persecution as an apologetic moment. "God is not dependent on political rights to grow his church. Do political rights help? Yeah, I think often they do. Are they important? Yeah. I'm not going to go out and give up what I think is an important part of America and American life. That being said, God doesn't need those things in order to grow his kingdom. His kingdom grows however he wants it to grow, and it is Him who will grow it, not our political powers and the rights that they Hannah Nation is the Managing Director of the Center for House Church Theology and a graduate of Covenant College and Gordon Commonwealth Theological Seminary. She has written for Christianity Today, the Gospel Coalition, Plough, and has edited several books, including Faithful Disobedience Writings on Church and State from a Chinese House Church Movement. In this episode, you will learn the following: Church and State perspective from a Chinese House Church Movement. Hannah Nation's unexpected journey to the Great Wall of China changed her outlook on life and faith forever. After discovering the Chinese house church writers and their hard-to-access writings, she was inspired to make a contribution to the global audience. With a unique perspective on post-colonial theology, she encouraged others to prioritize Jesus and the global reality of the Kingdom of God. Despite persecution and fear, Hannah inspired the Chinese church to use their suffering as an opportunity to testify to the power of God and repent of their own idols. Through her work, she showed that faith can thrive even without political rights. 1. How has the Chinese house church developed its own unique theology without outside influence? 2. How can persecution be seen as an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus? 3. How has the Chinese church grown exponentially in the face of political opposition? Resources: Other episodes you'll enjoy: Craig Greenfield on Subversive Mission Jessica Stone on Jounalism in Asia Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673 / YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Website: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast .com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Chapter Summaries: [00:00:02] Hannah Nation has edited a book called Faithful Disobedience writings on Church and State from a Chinese house church movement. This book brings for the first time to English readers his writings, some of his sermons. We'll talk about some of the big changes that are happening behind the scenes in China. [00:02:31] Hannah Nation joins A World of Difference to talk about her new book. Tell us a little bit about yourself and who is Hannah Nation? [00:03:17] I consider myself a Pittsburgh native, although I wasn't born here. My parents were living in Illinois when I was born, and we didn't move here until I was ten. I currently live here with my husband Trey and our two kids. It's always so amazing to meet people who've lived in a lot of other places. [00:05:21] Kovac: What started your interest in China specifically? It was honestly kind of a fluke. Having lived in Asia for 20 years, so many people end up being fascinated with China and the Chinese culture. Faithful Disobedience has done a good job of helping us understand what is going on in China. [00:10:17] Faithful Disobedience is a collection of writings from a well known house church pastor named Wang Yi. A lot of what he has to say is very applicable for people all over the world. These are very human problems that we all have in common. [00:13:31] This is the first book like this from a Chinese house church writer. The voices of the Chinese house churches have been very hard to access. This is one of the first books like this where we've been able to translate and publish writings from a very prominent pastor. [00:19:00] Wang Yi is a postcolonial theologian. He's always speaking to his own government. His ideas are very Chinese. The authorities that he's in conflict with are Chinese. What does this bring to the decolonization conversation in Christianity? [00:23:34] He's very concerned about the global reality of the church. Much of what China's authorities feel concerned about with regards to religious practice is affiliation with outside religious organizations. I really appreciate his perspective on that. We do appreciate the prayers. Definitely the United States needs them. [00:26:45] Wang Yi believes that nationalism is always at its heart synchronistic. He says persecution is a time for us to repent of our own idols. There's so much we can learn from brothers and sisters around the world about how do we act when persecution comes. [00:36:59] Hannah Nation serves as the Center for House Church Theology’s Managing Director. She is a graduate of Covenant College and received her Master of Arts in Church History from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. As a student of missions history and World Christianity, she is inspired by this historical moment and the privilege of witnessing a new chapter in church history unfold across China. She has written for Plough, Christianity Today, and The Gospel Coalition, and edited several books, including Faithful Disobedience: Writings on Church and State from a Chinese House Church Movement by Wang Yi Visit her website at hannahnation.com. Follow her on Twitter: @HannahFSNation Throughout China's rapidly growing cities, a new wave of unregistered house churches is growing. They are developing rich theological perspectives that are both uniquely Chinese and rooted in the historical doctrines of the faith. To understand how they have endured despite government pressure and cultural marginalization, we must understand both their history and their theology. In this volume that Hannah discusses, key writings from the house church have been compiled, translated, and made accessible to English speakers. Featured here is a manifesto by well-known pastor Wang Yi and his church, Early Rain Covenant Church in Chengdu, to clarify their theological stance on the house church and its relationship to the Chinese government. There are also works by prominent voices such as Jin Tianming, Jin Mingri, and Sun Yi. The editors have provided introductions, notes, and a glossary to give context to each selection. These writings are an important body of theology historically and spiritually. Though defined by a specific set of circumstances, they have universal applications in a world where the relationship between church and state is more complicated than ever. This unique resource will be valuable to practical and political theologians as well as readers interested in international relations, political philosophy, history, and intercultural studies. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comBecome a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Join us on Patreon If you haven't joined us yet on Patreon, this is your official invitation to join us as we go deeper in the conversation. patreon.com/aworldofdifference This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does it sound familiar to be promised change in a faith community, only to be let down time and time again? Perhaps you've been told that praying and hoping for change is the answer, but the pain of unfulfilled promises and ongoing trauma lingers. Are you tired of empty words and unmet expectations, especially when it comes to addressing clergy sexual abuse and spiritual trauma? It's time to acknowledge the impact and seek real solutions. Let's dive into empowering advocacy and validation of experiences. Join us in finding healing and change with abuse survivor and advocate Christa Brown in part 2. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover strategies for surviving clergy sexual abuse and reclaiming personal power. Explore the profound impact of spiritual abuse within faith communities and find ways to heal. Gain insights into the history and current efforts of the Southern Baptist Convention in addressing clergy abuse. Learn effective ways to advocate for change within religious organizations and support fellow survivors. Uncover the importance of professional counseling in the journey towards healing from trauma. My special guest is Christa Brown Christa Brown is an inspiring figure who has dedicated her life to advocating for survivors of clergy sexual abuse within the Southern Baptist Convention. As the author of the newly released book Baptistland, she bravely shares her own experiences of abuse, betrayal, and transformation, shedding light on the reality of clergy sex abuse and cover-ups within the US's largest protestant denomination. With a background as a retired appellate attorney, a mother, and a grandmother, Christa brings a unique perspective and unwavering determination to demand reforms and bring about change within religious organizations. Her insights and experiences offer valuable knowledge and empowerment to those navigating the complex journey of healing from trauma and seeking justice. Follow Christa on X/Twitter. Listen to the first of the 2 part EPS here. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:02:00 - Trigger Warning and Introduction of Guest 00:03:13 - Skepticism and Empty Promises 00:11:37 - Cultivating Skepticism 00:14:39 - Applause for Perpetrators 00:16:46 - Lack of Consequences for Harmful Behavior 00:19:10 - Lack of Change in Leadership 00:22:23 - Troubling Hotline Operations 00:25:02 - Spiritual Abuse and Inappropriate Prayers 00:30:22 - Seeking Accountability and Restitution 00:34:31 - Challenges of Changing from Within 00:36:07 - Call to Action and Concerns 00:37:24 - Importance of Christa's Voice 00:38:12 - Impact of Christa's Memoir 00:39:38 - Invitation to Join the Difference Makers Community for an exclusive EPS with Christa Brown and much more Check out host Lori Adams-Brown's latest Substack newsletter: The Bully Pulpit Why Whistleblowing as a Former Woman Pastor in a Southern Baptist Church Has Nuance https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lori reflects on the past year of podcasting, the 20th anniversary of the tsunami and the way leading in a polycrisis led to lessons she implemented in the Covid-19 pandemic. Whatever lies ahead in 2025, reflecting on the lessons of the past will give us tools to handle whatever comes our way this year. Follow a more in depth conversation with Lori here: Lori posted on LinkedIn some more thoughts from a white paper from the Center for Creative Leadership on polycrises. Lori posted on Instagram about her time working in the tsunami relief efforts as a liason in the UN meetings and with tsunami victims on the 20th anniversary on Dec 26, 2024. Lori wrote a lament on her Substack on the 20th Anniversary of the tsunami in Indonesia. Go back and listen to some of our episodes from 2024. There were some outstanding guests who gave us some insights from their own lived experience with authentic real life stories that will give us tools to handle 2025 together. Join us on Patreon for exclusive interviews not available anywhere else. Leave a five star review of the podcast if you liked listening last year. It only takes 30 seconds, but it makes a big difference in how people find us and join us here. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Bluesky TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Jocelyn Chong, the resilient banking industry leader turned emotional health advocate, as she challenges leaders to prioritize self-care, embrace vulnerability, and navigate the central conflict of balancing achievement and well-being on their path to enhanced leadership effectiveness. Nourish your body and mind with good sleep, nourishing food, and healthy habits. Take time to rest, play, and connect with your loved ones. Remember, life is short, don't take things too seriously. - Jocelyn Chong In this episode, you will be able to: Discover why caring for your own emotional well-being can be a game changer for effective leadership. Uncover the keys to outstanding communication within your diverse team. Realize the vital role of stepping beyond your comfort zone in both your personal and professional evolution. Grasp the significance of keeping pace with our changing world through continual learning and adaptation. Recognize the impact that a strong network of mentorship and support can have on your leadership journey. My special guest is Jocelyn Chong, an accomplished business growth mentor and coach from Australia. Having started her journey in Malaysia, Jocelyn brings a profound understanding of multicultural intricacies to her work. With over two decades of experience leading distinguished teams in banking and finance, she has honed her skills in establishing effective communication across different cultures. Her diverse background combined with her expertise in infusing spirituality within business nurtures her success as a four-time #1 international bestselling author, keynote speaker and certified life coach. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Connect with Jocelyn Chong: Reach out to Jocelyn Chong on her website or social media platforms to learn more about her coaching and mentoring services. On Instagram or LinkedIn Seek out a mentor: If you're a team leader or aspiring leader, find a mentor who has experience in your field and can provide guidance and support. Join a support network: Look for a network or community of like-minded individuals who are facing similar challenges in their leadership roles. This can provide a valuable space for sharing ideas and gaining insights. Utilize Ed's Profiling: Consider using Ed's Profiling or a similar tool to better understand your own behavior and communication style, and how to effectively engage with team members who have different strengths and communication styles. Prioritize self-care: As a leader, it's important to prioritize your own emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical health. Invest in self-care strategies that will support your overall well-being and enable you to better serve others. Take uncomfortable actions: Remember that growth often happens outside of our comfort zones. Embrace discomfort and take risks in order to achieve your dreams and reach your full potential. Simplify communication: When leading a diverse team, strive to Your dreams are always on the other side of the spectrum where it's uncomfortable. When we can think about that zone, you will always get closer to your dreams when you do uncomfortable things. - Jocelyn Chong The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction, 00:02:59 - Adapting to a New Country, 00:07:46 - Overcoming Obstacles, 00:12:33 - Connecting with Others, 00:15:57 - Becoming a Strong Leader, 00:18:05 - Importance of Self Leadership, 00:19:30 - Rest and Renewal, 00:23:40 - Finding Balance and Enjoyment, 00:26:24 - Positioning for the Future of Work, 00:31:57 - Leading Ourselves and Others, 00:34:52 - Final Thoughts and Call to Action, 00:35:33 - The Importance of Sharing, 00:35:54 - Wrap-up and Reflection on Jocelyn's Insights, 00:36:51 - Applying Jocelyn's Advice, 00:37:42 - Social Media Interaction, Invest in your own self-care strategies as a leader, prioritize your emotional health, mental health, spiritual health, and physical health. The more you invest in yourself, the more you can give to others. - Jocelyn Chong Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction, Host Lori Adams-Brown introduces the guest, Jocelyn Chong, who is a business growth mentor and coach. They discuss the importance of emotional health and happiness in the banking and finance industry. 00:02:59 - Adapting to a New Country, Jocelyn shares her experience of moving from Malaysia to Australia and the challenges she faced in adapting to a new culture and working environment. She emphasizes the importance of building a support network and seeking understanding of different cultures. 00:07:46 - Overcoming Obstacles, Jocelyn talks about the obstacles she encountered as a 17-year-old in a new country, including building self-confidence and adapting to a different working culture. She highlights the importance of communication and simplifying it across different cultures and age groups. 00:12:33 - Connecting with Others, Jocelyn emphasizes the need to connect with the heart and soul of individuals in order to make a difference and touch more lives. She encourages leaders to prioritize their own emotional health and seek support from mentors and networks. 00:15:57 - Becoming a Strong Leader, Jocelyn advises team leaders to seek mentors and build relationships with successful leaders who can provide guidance and support. She also suggests finding a support network of peers facing similar challenges and utilizing their insights and strategies for success. 00:18:05 - Importance of Self Leadership, Self leadership involves working on our emotional health and taking responsibility for our own personalities and communication. Leaders set the tone and need to prioritize rest and renewal to be effective. 00:19:30 - Rest and Renewal, Taking care of our physical and mental well-being is crucial. Good sleep, nourishing food, and regular breaks contribute to making sound decisions, fostering creativity, and maintaining overall health and happiness. 00:23:40 - Finding Balance and Enjoyment, It's important not to take life too seriously and to make time for laughter, play, and quality time with loved ones. Taking breaks, practicing meditation or yoga, and exploring new activities can bring joy and rejuvenation. 00:26:24 - Positioning for the Future of Work, The future of work will be heavily influenced by digital aspects, such as AI. However, human qualities like empathy, compassion, and creativity cannot be replaced by robots. Embracing change, unlearning old patterns, and being open to new opportunities are key for career success. 00:31:57 - Leading Ourselves and Others, Practicing self-leadership and embracing individual differences allows leaders to create an inclusive and innovative environment. Mentoring, having a growth mindset, and valuing human connection are essential for navigating the future and making a positive impact. 00:34:52 - Final Thoughts and Call to Action, Jocelyn expresses gratitude for being on the podcast and encourages listeners to share the podcast with others who could benefit from it. 00:35:33 - The Importance of Sharing, Jocelyn emphasizes that we get better together by sharing what has helped us and encourages listeners to share the podcast with those who need encouragement or a boost. 00:35:54 - Wrap-up and Reflection on Jocelyn's Insights, Lori praises Jocelyn's perspective and applauds her ability to focus on emotional health in the banking and finance industry. She encourages listeners to reach out to Jocelyn for coaching and to follow her work. 00:36:51 - Applying Jocelyn's Advice, Lori advises listeners to choose one key takeaway from the conversation and implement it in their lives over the next 30 days. She also encourages listeners to join the Difference Makers community and stay engaged with exclusive content. 00:37:42 - Social Media Interaction, Lori invites listeners to share pictures of themselves listening to the podcast and tag the show on social media. She also mentions the various social media platforms where the show can be found and encourages engagement in the Difference Maker community. Become a club member of this podcast, and enjoy free exclusive episodes. Join other Difference Makers at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a Difference Maker with others in the club membership of this podcast, and enjoy free exclusive episodes. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Embracing Neurodiversity and Celebrating Differences on Earth Day Get ready for an eye-opening and inspiring episode of A World of Difference, hosted by the amazing Lori Adams-Brown. To celebrate Earth Day, Lori invites her guest, the brilliant Katherine McCord, to discuss the importance of neurodiversity and inclusion in everyday life and the workplace. In this episode, the duo share their personal experiences with neurodiversity and the role it plays in understanding and accepting others, including those on the autism spectrum.  They have a fascinating discussion that will leave you wanting more. Did you know that teams with neurodiverse individuals can be up to 33% more productive? Or that neurodiversities like autism have played a positive role in human evolution? You will learn how to create a more inclusive environment for those who identify as neurodiverse and how to respond with curiosity instead of ego when someone requests something different.  Katherine shares her personal journey and how she lives by the motto "different is not a deficit." Her passion for inclusion and diversity has led her to own a company that provides consulting and HR services. You don't want to miss out on the inspiring conversation and the opportunity to gain a new perspective on neurodiversity. So, let's celebrate Earth Day and embrace our differences with A World of Difference. In this episode, host Lori Adams-Brown has an eye-opening conversation with Katherine McCord, an HR tech and inclusive innovation expert who encourages embracing differences as a valuable asset, not a deficit. Katherine shares personal experiences with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and bipolar disorder, emphasizing that different brain processes should be celebrated and supported, especially in the workplace. Lori links the episode with Earth Day and highlights the importance of topics related to differences and listening with a positive attitude. The podcast delves deep into the concept of neurodiversity, highlighting its crucial role in diverse teams' productivity. The speaker notes that diagnoses like autism and neurodiversities like OCD and bipolar disorder should not be seen as a disability but rather a superpower, explaining how they affect their lives positively. The episode provides valuable information on how to accommodate different behavioral needs and achieve effective communication with neurodiverse individuals. The speaker emphasizes the importance of breaking down ego defenses and curiously responding to differences rather than requiring people to mask or behave unnaturally. The podcast aims to promote inclusivity and understanding towards neurodiverse individuals, highlighting the importance of careful language use around mental health diagnoses. Overall, this podcast highlights the benefits of neurodiversity not only in the workplace but also in everyday life, and offers insights into how we can all become more accepting and supportive of those who are neurodiverse. Don't miss out on this episode that inspires us to celebrate everyone's differences! Timestamps [00:00:02] Neurodiversity and Inclusion in Work and Life [00:03:52] Personal Earth Day Celebration and Neurodiversity Awareness [00:07:04] Autism Awareness and Neurodiversity [00:10:44] Improving Workplace Inclusion through Breaking Down Masking Episode Links https://www.kmccordspeaking.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-mccord-093bb343/ Best Quotes Katherine lives by the motto that different is not a deficit [00:00:58] Different is not a deficit. Those teams were 33 percent more productive than their counterpart teams [00:08:43] Autism is not inherently a disability. In fact, it can be something of a superpower [00:07:53] Just because you're different does not mean that you're less than, and there are actually a lot of positive aspects that come with neurodiversity Other Materials These materials help you promote your podcast. Quotes can be used for audio & video grams or quote cards. Blog and social posts will help your website and social media presence. All Quotes [00:09:26] It's just a matter of learning to balance [00:07:30] Those teams were 33 percent more productive than their counterpart teams [00:00:58] Different is not a deficit [00:05:39] Well, another thing we're really in this month and we, our family has really become aware many, many years ago because I have 1 of my favorite family members is on the autism spectrum, is autistic, and that sent me years ago on a journey of understanding more about what it's like to be a human being on the autism spectrum, and it's not only helped me be a better human being to just understand and accept and embrace this, but also it's allowed me into the lives of many people who are neurodiverse [Unknown] Catherine lives by the motto that different is not a deficit [00:01:31] She's gonna talk about her own experience and how we can support people with bipolar [00:01:41] She's gonna talk about all the parts of him that she loves and why often we have these biases and stereotypes and boxes that we put people in that aren't always helpful [Unknown] One of the most detrimental things that I've found over the years that people can require is masking [00:08:43] Autism is not inherently a disability. In fact, it can be something of a superpower [00:02:11] Here at the year over the difference podcast, we are all about understanding our differences, becoming aware of them, accepting them, and also knowing how to live together in ways that help each other flourish in this world [00:09:59] I personally try really hard to be inclusive, but I think part of that process means sitting and deeply listening to people who have all these differences [00:03:44] I always go over to the beach. I do live in South Florida. I go over to the beach and I just sit, and it's very early in the morning. I like to watch the sun come up. I usually see some shooting stars when I do this, and I just sit and breathe and then I take my dog over to 1 of the nature preserves and we just hang out with the trees and the plants and listen to all the sounds and have a grand old time together. That's how I celebrate [00:05:10] My 1 who's not college was I think 3 or 4 when we started a tradition of planning a tree on earth day, and then when we moved to Singapore, you weren't allowed to do that, which we thought was strange, but because they they they're the garden city, and they plant all their own they they do a great job on their own, and it's kinda like, we don't want you just planning anywhere [00:07:53] Just because you're different does not mean that you're less than, and there are actually a lot of positive aspects that come with neurodiversity [00:04:40] It's tough, and, you know, it's it's although it's normal and part of life, it's still really, really hard. Deal with that kind of grief, and she was a part of our family, and that unconditional love that dogs can bring you when you walk through all of life's traumas, we were with her way more during co than we had been before with kids in online school for a year and a half Katherine McCord: These things are ways that people make themselves more comfortable and it actually helps them focus and become more productive, including not looking at you Here are three tips from McCord’s conversation with Adams-Brown: 1. Define neurodiversity – According to McCord, neurodiversity refers to the different ways that people’s brains work. This means that differences in the way people think and process information should be embraced rather than labeled as deficits. 2. Practice inclusion – Inclusion is key to creating a workplace and society that values neurodiversity. By creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported, we can foster creativity and innovation. 3. Support those with bipolar disorder – McCord shared how important it is for those living with bipolar disorder to have a support system. This can include therapy, medication, and understanding from loved ones. By supporting those living with bipolar disorder, we can reduce the stigma surrounding mental health conditions. McCord’s message is a reminder that differences should be celebrated and that inclusivity is crucial. If you want to learn more about neurodiversity and McCord’s journey, listen to the full episode of The World of Difference podcast. Quote: “Different is not a deficit.” – Katherine McCord Article 2: Autism Acceptance and Understanding Others Lori Adams-Brown’s A World of Difference podcast recently featured Katherine McCord, an HR tech expert and advocate for neurodiversity. The conversation centered around autism awareness and acceptance month, and the importance of understanding and accepting those who are different. Here are three tips from McCord’s conversation with Adams-Brown: 1. Embrace autism acceptance – Autism acceptance is a preferred term over autism awareness because it focuses on accepting and understanding those who are on the autism spectrum rather than simply being aware of their existence. 2. Avoid stereotypes and biases – McCord shared how we often put people in boxes with labels that aren’t helpful. By avoiding stereotypes and biases, we can better understand and appreciate those who are different from us. 3. Understand the positive aspects of neurodiversity – Neurodiversity can contribute to creativity and innovation. By embracing the positive aspects of neurodiversity, we can create a more inclusive and productive society. McCord’s message is a reminder that understanding and accepting those who are different from us is key to creating a more connected and compassionate world. If you want to learn more about autism acceptance and McCord’s personal experiences, listen to the full episode of The World of Difference podcast. Quote: “We have these biases and stereotypes and boxes that we put people in that aren’t always helpful.” – Katherine McCord Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you ready to uncover the unexpected link between French cuisine, midlife acceptance, and the resilience found in a tiny winemaking village? Join Steve Hoffman, an award-winning writer and memoirist, as he shares his journey of cultural immersion and self-discovery. You won't want to miss the open loop of his unique insights that are sure to stir a sense of wonder within you. Keep an eye out for his upcoming memoir, "A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France," for a deep dive into his transformative experiences. BIG REVEAL: Get ready to savor the flavors of life and the unexpected truths that come with it. In this episode, you will be able to: Embracing cultural differences to thrive in a new environment. Discovering the enriching rewards of extended stays in one foreign location. Unveiling the impact of French cuisine on the global culinary landscape. Capturing and sharing personal experiences through the art of memoir writing. Nurturing and navigating the unique upbringing of third culture kids in France. My special guest is Steve Hoffman Steve Hoffman, a Minnesota-based tax preparer and food writer, has achieved recognition for his culinary expertise, including the prestigious 2019 James Beard MFK Fisher Distinguished Writing Award. His contributions have been featured in esteemed publications such as Food and Wine, the Washington Post, and the Minneapolis Star Tribune. With an upcoming memoir titled "A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France," Hoffman provides a unique perspective on cultural adaptation, the global influence of French cuisine, and the complexities of raising third culture kids in France. Through his extensive experience and compelling storytelling, Hoffman offers valuable insights into navigating culture shock abroad and the profound impact of French culinary traditions on global food culture. His expertise and passion for cross-cultural experiences make him a valuable resource for individuals seeking to enhance their understanding of cultural immersion and resilience. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction and Sponsorship 00:02:05 - Steve's Background and Career Journey 00:08:59 - Finding Identity in France 00:11:55 - Embracing Present Circumstances 00:14:06 - Acceptance and Family 00:14:54 - The Human Experience and Cultural Influence 00:16:27 - Analytical Brain and Creativity with Food 00:19:29 - Influence and Personal Commitment 00:23:56 - Finding Satisfaction in Deep Commitment 00:27:48 - Travel Advice 00:28:49 - Embracing the Unexpected in French Polynesia 00:30:15 - French Influence in Southeast Asia 00:32:05 - Exploring Mediterranean French Cuisine 00:35:10 - Overcoming Culture Shock 00:37:29 - Embracing Cultural Diversity Through Food 00:43:01 - The Immersive Read and Deeper Topics 00:43:23 - The Importance of Pre-Orders 00:43:46 - Embracing New Cultures 00:44:51 - Connecting Through Food 00:51:08 - Final Thoughts and Takeaways Join us for an exclusive EPS with Steve Hoffman in our Difference Makers community on Patreon. This exclusive episode isn't available any where else but here: https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference One way you can make a difference and help people find us is to leave us a review. It doesn't take long, but it really does make a difference! Leave a review here: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com/reviews/new/ https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Dr. Wade Mullen is the author of Something’s Not Right: Decoding the Hidden Tactics of Abuse – and Freeing Yourself From Its Power. Dr. Mullen is a world renowned expert on abuse in the church. He served ten years in pastoral ministry and then five years as a seminary M.Div. program director and assistant professor before transitioning to full-time research and writing, consulting, speaking, and advocacy. Wade earned a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies and completed a dissertation titled “Impression Management Strategies Used by Evangelical Organizations in the Wake of an Image-threatening Event.” You can get that dissertation for free here. He founded Pellucid Consulting in the Fall of 2021 to provide consulting and independent assessment services for institutions. He started a Substack Newsletter called Pellucid in the Fall of 2021 where I write about the ways in which deception is used to abuse and cover up abuse and how leaders and institutions can act with integrity and speak truthfully. The content is free, but there are also paid options for those who want to support my work. He speaks on occasion at events related to the subject of abuse and institutional response and participates as a guest on podcasts. You can listen to the podcasts here. He continues to engage in research efforts to better understand abuse within Christian cultures and institutions. I’m currently working on preparing a manuscript for a second book. He has also been serving when needed as an institutional response specialist with GRACE since 2020, assisting them primarily with institutional assessments. Wade's work in the local church first introduced him to the needs of abuse victims and the potential for institutional betrayal and trauma when those who are supposed to protect the victim(s) choose to protect the abuser(s). He also learned the challenge of advocating from within and how to confront the system when necessary.  His personal story is told in a profile piece by Sojourner’s Magazine and in a talk he gave at the Restore conference in Chicago. Resources Dr. Mullen mentioned: Meeting the Ethical Challenges of Leadership by Craig E. Johnson Blind to Betrayal: Why We Fool Ourselves We Aren't Being Fooled by Jennifer Freyd Narcissm and the Systems it Breeds video of Dr. Diane Langberg's presentation When Narcissism Comes to Church by Dr. Chuck DeGroat A Church Called TOV by Dr. Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer Redeeming Power: Understanding Authority and Abuse in the Church by Dr. Diane Langberg Suffering and the Heart of God by Dr. Diane Langberg Stalking the Soul: Emotional Abuse and the Erosion of Identity by Marie-France Hirigoyen The Verbally Abusive Relationship by Patricia Evans Is Nothing Sacred? The Story of a Pastor, the Women He Sexually Abused and the Church He Nearly Destroyed by Marie M. Fortune Whispering Truth to Power: Everyday Resistance to Reconciliation in Postgenocide Rwanda by Susan Thomson The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the shocking truth about toxic work environments and the defense mechanism that keeps us blind to the abuse. Join host Lori Adams-Brown as she interviews whistleblower Amy Fritz, who exposes the dark underbelly of a faith-based organization, leaving you questioning who you can trust and what lies beneath the surface of your own workplace. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the need for addressing unhealthy work conditions prevalent in faith-driven spaces. Grasp how turning a blind eye to betrayal contributes to toxic workplaces. Unearth the complex process of reconciling faith with the practices of Christian authorities and groups. Recognize the extensive impact of harmful work conditions on employees and their families. Know the vital role of opposing maltreatment and backing individuals on their journey of faith. My special guest is Amy Fritz Meet Amy Fritz: a champion for people who have found themselves wrapped up in toxic work environments and a tireless advocate for the exposure of complicated coping mechanisms like betrayal blindness. Drawing from her personal journey and deeply-rooted faith, Amy has turned the lessons from her experiences into a brave and confronting podcast, “Untangled Faith”. Here, she illuminates the pervasive issues often hidden in the background of workplaces, offering understanding, solidarity and hope to those battling similar demons. Amy personifies the transformative power of speaking out, keeping her faith at the heart of all she does. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Check out Amy Fritz's podcast, Untangled Faith, for community, encouragement, and anti-gaslighting support for those who have had difficult experiences with toxic work environments and churches. Attend Podcast Movement in Denver in August to meet both Amy Fritz and Lori Adams-Brown, and connect with other podcast hosts and industry professionals. Read Jennifer Fried's book, Blind to Betrayal, to gain a deeper understanding of betrayal blindness and its impact on individuals in toxic environments. Explore the concept of Darvo (deny, attack, reverse victim and offender) coined by the same person who introduced the term betrayal blindness. This can help shed light on manipulative tactics used in toxic environments. Reflect on the potential costs of staying in a toxic work environment or church, such as the loss of income, community, and relationships. Consider seeking professional guidance or support in making difficult decisions. Take steps to recognize betrayal blindness Betrayal blindness can prevent us from recognizing toxic work environments and the harm they can cause. - Amy Fritz The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction, 00:01:19 - Amy's Background and Podcast, 00:07:46 - Betrayal Blindness, 00:12:36 - Impact on Relationships and Community, 00:14:57 - Amy's Experience with Ramsey Solutions, 00:16:49 - Volunteering Information and Admin Duties, 00:18:35 - Gossip and Negative Feedback, 00:20:00 - Toxic Culture and Cover-ups, 00:22:25 - Resignation and Lies, 00:27:06 - Image Management and Abuse, 00:32:56 - Dave's Endorsement of Timeshare Exit Team, 00:35:29 - Untangling Faith and Trust in Institutions, 00:37:47 - Permission to Question and Leave Institutions, 00:39:42 - Navigating Toxicity in Faith Institutions, 00:42:24 - Amy's Contact Information, Seeing hard things requires making difficult decisions and facing the high costs that come with it. - Amy Fritz Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:02 - Introduction, This episode features guest Amy Fritz, host of the Untangled Faith Podcast. Amy shares her experience of being married to someone who worked in a toxic work environment and how it led her to start her own podcast. She discusses the concept of betrayal blindness and the challenges of speaking out against abuse and toxic environments. 00:01:19 - Amy's Background and Podcast, Amy talks about her podcast, Untangled Faith, which provides a community for those who have had difficult experiences with their faith. She shares her own journey of disillusionment with the church and the impact of toxic pastors and plagiarism in sermons. Amy emphasizes her passion for speaking out against unhealthy practices in faith-based spaces. 00:07:46 - Betrayal Blindness, Amy explains the concept of betrayal blindness and how it can prevent individuals from recognizing toxic situations. She shares her own experience of betrayal blindness and the fear of losing income and community if she spoke out against her husband's toxic work environment. Amy expresses empathy for others in similar situations and acknowledges the complexity of making difficult decisions. 00:12:36 - Impact on Relationships and Community, Amy discusses the impact of toxic work environments and faith organizations on relationships and communities. She highlights the loss of friendships and community that can occur when individuals choose to leave. Amy emphasizes the importance of considering the multiple factors tied to these environments, such as income, friendships, and mutual involvement. 00:14:57 - Amy's Experience with Ramsey Solutions, Amy shares her experience 00:16:49 - Volunteering Information and Admin Duties, The guest explains how she volunteered personal information and became an admin in a Facebook group for employees and spouses. She describes her role in planning events, meeting new people, and shutting down negative conversations about the company. 00:18:35 - Gossip and Negative Feedback, The guest discusses how the company had a policy of firing employees for gossip and only allowing positive feedback. She shares examples of people being fired for raising concerns or posting negative comments on social media. 00:20:00 - Toxic Culture and Cover-ups, The guest reveals a situation where a friend of hers was cheated on by a high-ranking company member. The company covered up the infidelity and continued to support the cheater, showing a toxic culture and double standards. 00:22:25 - Resignation and Lies, The guest's husband resigns after expressing concerns about the unethical behavior within the company. The company lies to him and implies that his friend, who was cheated on, is not trustworthy. The guest highlights the lies and false narratives perpetuated by the company. 00:27:06 - Image Management and Abuse, The guest discusses the toxic culture of image management within the company. She mentions the creation of a sexist trope of a "crazy wife" and how the company fired an employee for being pregnant while covering up infidelity by others. The guest exposes the lies and hypocrisy of the company's values. 00:32:56 - Dave's Endorsement of Timeshare Exit Team, Dave endorsed Timeshare Exit Team on his show, claiming they could help people get out of their timeshares. However, it was revealed that the company took people's money without delivering results. Dave continued to endorse them as long as they paid for advertising, raising questions about his credibility and adherence to FTC rules. 00:35:29 - Untangling Faith and Trust in Institutions, Amy acknowledges the disappointment and loss of trust that comes from uncovering toxic practices within faith institutions. She encourages listeners to hold institutions accountable and explore alternative communities that align with their values, while still recognizing the importance of being in community with fellow believers. 00:37:47 - Permission to Question and Leave Institutions, Amy gives listeners permission to question institutional loyalty and to choose not to become a member of a church. She emphasizes the importance of finding community and learning theology in alternative settings, rather than adhering to traditional structures. 00:39:42 - Navigating Toxicity in Faith Institutions, Amy acknowledges that faith institutions across different religions can become toxic and oppressive. She encourages individuals to find pastors and communities that accept their doubts and uncertainties, while still recognizing the love of Jesus. 00:42:24 - Amy's Contact Information, Amy can be found online through her podcast, Untangled Faith, and her website. She welcomes further questions and engagement with her work, particularly for those who have experienced toxic workplace environments or want to learn more about whistleblowing Empathy is crucial when understanding why individuals stay in toxic work environments due to the fear of losing not only income but also their community. - Amy Fritz ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a Difference Maker, and enjoy free exclusive content. Join other Difference Makers at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you stuck in a toxic work environment, feeling drained before even opening your laptop? What if I told you that the key to a healthy workplace culture lies in psychological safety? Join me on a journey to identify the red flags of toxicity and learn practical steps to protect yourself. But here's the unexpected twist: toxic work environments don't have to be the norm. Discover how recognizing the signs early and choosing supportive environments can create a world of difference for you and those around you. It's time to break free from the cycle of toxicity and step into a space where you feel respected, valued, and safe. Ready to make the change? Let's dive in and find out how. In this Live recorded episode, you will be able to: Recognizing Toxic Work Environments: Learn how to identify signs of toxicity in your workplace to protect your well-being and mental health. Importance of Psychological Safety: Discover the significance of feeling safe and supported at work, and how it impacts your overall job satisfaction and productivity. Effects of Burnout on Employees: Understand the detrimental effects of burnout on your mental and physical health, and how it can impact your work performance. Strategies for Leaving a Toxic Workplace: Explore effective ways to navigate and ultimately leave a toxic work environment, reclaiming your peace of mind and motivation. Creating Healthy Workplace Culture: Uncover the key elements of fostering a positive and healthy work environment, benefiting both employees and the organization as a whole. "You're not stuck. There are healthier workplaces out there. You deserve to work in a space where you feel respected, valued, and safe." - Lori Adams Brown Importance of Psychological Safety Psychological safety in the workplace is essential for fostering a culture where employees feel valued, heard, and respected. Creating an environment that promotes psychological safety encourages open communication, diverse perspectives, and innovation. When employees feel psychologically safe, they are more likely to thrive, leading to improved well-being and overall productivity. Subscribe to the A World of Difference podcast on your preferred podcast platform to stay updated on future episodes and discussions. Leave a review for the podcast on the platform you use to help the show reach more people and continue having important conversations. Share this episode with someone who may benefit from the discussion on toxic work environments and the signs to watch out for. Consider seeking professional help, such as therapy, if you are currently experiencing a toxic work environment and need support in navigating the situation. Document any toxic behavior in your workplace to keep records in case you may need proof in the future. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to A World of Difference podcast 00:01:08 - Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace 00:04:26 - Red Flags of Toxic Work Environments 00:09:04 - Toxic Leadership and Fear-Based Culture 00:12:09 - Grind Culture and Overwork 00:12:58 - Importance of Work Life Boundaries 00:13:23 - Human Limits and AI Partnership 00:14:25 - Values Alignment in the Workplace 00:15:37 - Transparency and Communication 00:16:28 - Coping Strategies and Seeking Support Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Surviving in Toxic Environments: Dr. L. Carol Scott shares essential self-care strategies to thrive in the midst of challenging circumstances and navigate the conflict between self-preservation and external pressures. Does the stress and chaos of an unhealthy environment leave you feeling overwhelmed? Have you been told to just tough it out and keep pushing forward, only to find yourself exhausted and burnt out? It's time to stop the cycle of ineffective self-care and start prioritizing your well-being. Our episode will guide you through essential techniques for navigating change, acknowledging and validating your emotions, focusing on what is within your control, and seizing newfound possibilities. Don't continue to suffer through the pain of an unhealthy environment. Join us and start implementing practical and effective self-care practices for positive well-being. In this episode, you will be able to: Delve into practical tips for managing the unpredictable nature of change. Recognize the value in honoring and legitimizing your feelings. Acquire skills to target controllable factors amidst upheaval. Develop the art of adapting and tapping into emerging prospects. Comprehend the necessity for self-nurturing and seeking assistance during transitions. My special guest is Dr. L. Carol Scott Dr. L. Carol Scott is a trauma-informed developmental psychologist, TEDx speaker, coach, and #1 International Best-Selling author. Carol brings the SASS—Self-Aware Success Strategies to help you get along better on the adult playgrounds where you play. Carol knows that your success today is determined by your first seven years of life. And she also knows that it’s never too late for Development Do-Overs. As her coaching client, you bring your unique goals for success, and she pulls out the SASS you need to achieve them. Together, you repattern how you operate in every relationship at the heart of your success. Also a nationally respected thought leader in early care and education (ECE), Carol is former president of the board for Child Care Aware® of America, and the ECE System Integration Consultant for Early Care Plus, a public benefit technology company revolutionizing access for all parents and caregivers to the ecosystem of ECE services. As a seasoned psychologist and advocate for self-care, Dr. L. Carol Scott is a sought-after expert when it comes to maintaining one's mental and physical health in challenging situations. Having spent years providing support to individuals in unhealthy environments, she understands the importance of establishing self-care practices that promote personal growth and resilience. Dr. Scott's wealth of experience and personable approach make her a valuable resource for anyone seeking guidance on preserving their well-being in the face of adversity. We have to break the cycle of unhealthy relationships and create boundaries in order to truly practice self-care. - Dr. L. Carol Scott Growing up in chaos, Dr. L. Carol Scott learned the importance of self-care early on. But what happens when the unhealthy environment follows you into adulthood? Through trial and error, Dr. Scott discovered the key to thriving in any situation lies in taking control of your own well-being. Her journey proved that even in the toughest of times, you can find peace and balance by prioritizing self-care. Now, Dr. Scott shares her invaluable insights with those facing similar challenges, offering guidance and support to improve their self-care practices. But how did she refine her approach to self-care? Stay tuned to find out. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Share this episode with a friend or family member who is going through a change. Take time to recognize and validate your emotions around change, using tools like therapy or self-reflection. Focus on the parts of the change that you can control and take action where possible. Stay flexible and adaptable, embracing new opportunities instead of resisting them. Practice self-care during times of change, using tools like exercise, mindfulness, or therapy to care for yourself. Consider becoming a Patreon supporter to access exclusive content and interviews with experts like Dr. L. Carol Scott. Check out the resources and tools mentioned in the episode, such as the Enneagram personality test or the book The Change Cycle by Ann Salerno and Lillie Brock. Join the A World of Difference community on social media to connect with others who are navigating change and making a difference in the world. Recognizing Emotions and Rationalizing Change Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in dealing with change, as individuals learn to recognize, understand, and respond to their emotions effectively. Emotional intelligence can help individuals approach change with curiosity and self-compassion rather than judgment. When rationalizing change, it's important to differentiate between the aspects that are within one's control and those that are beyond it, as this can help mitigate negative emotions. Dr. L. Carol Scott highlights the importance of being aware of one's emotions throughout the change process. Being able to recognize and give oneself space to process emotions leads to a healthier approach and response to change. Dr. Scott's insights on validating feelings associated with change can help individuals cope with the transition and make informed decisions to move forward. Does the stress and chaos of an unhealthy environment leave you feeling overwhelmed? Have you been told to just tough it out and keep pushing forward, only to find yourself exhausted and burnt out? It's time to stop the cycle of ineffective self-care and start prioritizing your well-being. Our episode will guide you through essential techniques for navigating change, acknowledging and validating your emotions, focusing on what is within your control, and seizing newfound possibilities. Don't continue to suffer through the pain of an unhealthy environment. Join us and start implementing practical and effective self-care practices for positive well-being. Does the stress and chaos of an unhealthy environment leave you feeling overwhelmed? Have you been told to just tough it out and keep pushing forward, only to find yourself exhausted and burnt out? It's time to stop the cycle of ineffective self-care and start prioritizing your well-being. Our episode will guide you through essential techniques for navigating change, acknowledging and validating your emotions, focusing on what is within your control, and seizing newfound possibilities. Don't continue to suffer through the pain of an unhealthy environment. Join us and start implementing practical and effective self-care practices for positive well-being. Self-care is not a luxury, it's a necessity. We must prioritize it in order to show up as our best selves. - Dr. L. Carol Scott Importance of self-care during times of change When faced with change, self-care often takes a backseat. However, to adapt and thrive, it's essential to prioritize one's well-being. Self-care practices such as getting sufficient rest, eating well, exercising, and practicing mindfulness can help individuals navigate change with greater ease and resilience. This ultimately translates into a healthier and more productive response to change. During her conversation with Lori Adams-Brown, Dr. Carol Scott emphasized the importance of self-care during times of change. Drawing from her own experiences, Dr. Scott illustrated how prioritizing self-care helps individuals overcome challenging times. By adopting self-care practices, individuals can build a strong foundation for emotional, mental, and physical resilience, enabling them to face life's changes with greater strength and grace. Recognizing Emotions and Rationalizing Change Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in dealing with change, as individuals learn to recognize, understand, and respond to their emotions effectively. Emotional intelligence can help individuals approach change with curiosity and self-compassion rather than judgment. When rationalizing change, it's important to differentiate between the aspects that are within one's control and those that are beyond it, as this can help mitigate negative emotions. Dr. L. Carol Scott highlights the importance of being aware of one's emotions throughout the change process. Being able to recognize and give oneself space to process emotions leads to a healthier approach and response to change. Dr. Scott's insights on validating feelings associated with change can help individuals cope with the transition and make informed decisions to move forward. Remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish, it's necessary for your overall well-being. - Dr. L. Carol Scott Discover essential techniques for navigating the uncertainties of change. Uncover the significance of acknowledging and validating your emotions. Learn how to direct your focus on aspects within your control during challenging times. Explore the benefits of staying agile and seizing newfound possibilities. Realize the importance of self-care and reaching out for help when facing transitions. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Coping with Change, 00:05:06 - Navigating Change in Different Cultures, 00:08:45 - Recognizing Emotions and Rationalizing Change, 00:11:24 - Focusing on Controllable Factors, 00:13:38 - Summary, 00:14:51 - Importance of self-care during times of change, 00:16:19 - Difficulty of practicing self-care, 00:18:39 - Importance of mindfulness, 00:21:17 - Seeking support during times of change, 00:28:57 - Coping with Change, 00:30:00 - Personal Experience with Change, 00:31:50 - Community Support, 00:32:36 - Final Thoughts, Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:13:38 - Summary, The podcast episode discusses the importance of recognizing and understanding emotions when faced with change, understanding the different organizational cultures and leadership styles in managing change, and staying flexible and open-minded to embrace new opportunities. Focusing on the controllable factors and managing emotions through rationalization is key in coping with change. 00:14:51 - Importance of self-care during times of change, During times of transition, it's important to prioritize self-care. This includes getting enough rest, eating well, exercising, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and seeking support from others. Change can make us feel isolated and alone, so it's important to reach out to friends, family, or join a support group. Therapy can also help us maintain and adapt to change. 00:16:19 - Difficulty of practicing self-care, Our culture expects mothers to constantly give and volunteer, making it hard for them to practice self-care. However, it's especially important for mothers to prioritize self-care during times of transition. This includes getting enough rest, eating well, exercising, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and seeking support from others. 00:18:39 - Importance of mindfulness, Mindfulness can be challenging but is helpful during times of transition to ground us. Paying attention to our body and being in the present moment can help us process change. Mindfulness can be practiced through quiet time, reading scripture, or using an app. Walking can also be helpful, as the bilateral movement mimics EMDR therapy for trauma. 00:21:17 - Seeking support during times of change, Change can make us feel isolated and alone, so it's important to seek support from others during times of transition. This can include talking to a trusted friend or family member, joining a support group, or seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor. Coping with change takes time and effort, but it's 00:28:57 - Coping with Change, Dr. L. Carol Scott and Lori Adams-Brown discuss coping with change. They suggest shrinking the change and breaking it down into bite-sized pieces, such as setting a timer for 5 minutes to clean. 00:30:00 - Personal Experience with Change, Dr. L. Carol Scott shares her personal experience with a difficult and unwelcome change and discusses the steps she took to cope and eventually heal. 00:31:50 - Community Support, Lori Adams-Brown expresses her gratitude for the podcast's community and the support it provides for listeners going through change. She encourages listeners to share the podcast with others and continue the conversation around coping with change. 00:32:36 - Final Thoughts, Lori Adams-Brown thanks listeners for their support and wishes them well as they continue to navigate change. She invites listeners to share their experiences and to join their Patreon community for more exclusive content outside of this free episode. Dr. L. Carol Scott, LLC 314-517-5137 carol@lcarolscott.com www.facebook.com/dr.l.carolscott www.instagram.com/dr.l.carol https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-l-carol-scott-7b70429/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPcM_A44GK65LdmPeq6i1IA Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to understand the impact of evangelicalism on politics and how to make a difference? Discover how a historian, NY Times best-selling author and filmmaker are centering survivor voices to bring about change. Get ready to dive into a conversation that's making waves and sparking crucial conversations. Stay tuned for more. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the impact of evangelicalism on politics and uncover its influence on key societal issues. Understand the significance of a survivor-centered approach in abuse documentaries and its potential to reshape narratives. Gain insight into the historical context of gender roles in evangelicalism and its relevance in contemporary discussions. Uncover the influence of Christian nationalism on U.S. elections and its implications for the political landscape. Discover the essential role of historians in understanding current social issues and shaping informed perspectives. My special guest is Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez Dr. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, a New York Times bestselling author and professor of history and gender studies at Calvin University, is known for her groundbreaking work on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. Her book Jesus and John Wayne has had a significant impact, shedding light on the influence of evangelicalism on politics and societal trends. In her latest project, the documentary For Our Daughters, Dr. Du Mez delves into the survivor-centered approach, highlighting the voices of abuse survivors within evangelical churches, particularly the Southern Baptist community. Through her extensive research and expertise, Dr. Du Mez offers a unique historical context, outlining the complex dynamics that have shaped the evangelical landscape and its impact on contemporary social issues, including the influence of Christian nationalism on U.S. elections. Her work continues to be an essential resource for educators and historians seeking to understand the evolving intersection of evangelicalism and politics. Watch the documentary For Our Daughters to hear the impactful stories of survivors and gain a deeper understanding of the abuse crisis in evangelical churches. Read Kristin Kobes Du Mez's book Jesus and John Wayne to gain historical insights into the intersection of gender, religion, and politics in evangelical spaces. Join the Difference Maker Community on Patreon to access exclusive interviews with Kristin Kobes Du Mez, where she unpacks specific calls to action. Visit Kristin's Substack Du Mez Connections for more of her writing and insights on gender, religion, and politics. Explore the resources and organizations listed on the For Our Daughters film website to support survivors and bring better practices to faith communities. Listen to EPS 39 where Dr. Du Mez discusses her book Jesus and John Wayne. The key moments in this episode are: 00:13:17 - Comparison of Evangelicalism and Politics 00:14:27 - Patterns of Support for Powerful Men 00:16:31 - Political and Hierarchical Networks 00:20:10 - Intersection of Evangelicalism and Politics 00:23:53 - Default Response to Abuse 00:27:46 - Survivor-Centered Approach 00:29:45 - The Power Dynamics Within Evangelicalism 00:30:44 - Recognizing the Prevalence of Predators 00:32:40 - Impact of the Film "For Our Daughters" 00:37:03 - Undecided Voters and the Importance of Democracy 00:42:31 - Advocating for Survivors and the Impact of Silence Podcast Social Media Links https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you ready to uncover the unexpected? Imagine exploring a podcast episode that dives into indigenous North American culture and the monumental impact of preserving traditions. But what you didn't expect was the unique perspective and insights shared by a guest who's built one of the largest online communities celebrating native American arts and culture. It's a journey that will leave you inspired and longing for more. Want to discover the unexpected insights that will broaden your understanding of indigenous cultures? Keep listening to find out how this conversation will enrich your perspective in ways you never imagined. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the significance of building online communities for cultural engagement. Discover the benefits of outdoor activities for enhancing mental well-being. Explore the immersive experience of indigenous American culture through powwows. Grasp the impact of government policies on Native American sovereignty. Learn about the importance of preserving indigenous languages and traditions. My special guest is Paul Gowder Paul Gowder, the founder of Powwows.com, is a leading expert in celebrating native American arts and culture. With a background in public administration and a strong passion for community building, Paul has been at the forefront of creating one of the largest and most engaged online communities for over 25 years. His work has been featured in renowned publications such as USA Today and the Smithsonian, showcasing his exceptional photography skills. Through Powwows.com, Paul has successfully brought together a social media following of over 900,000 individuals, reaching over 10 million people. His dedication to preserving indigenous culture and traditions is evident in his impactful work, making him a pivotal figure in the community. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing Powwows.com and Betterhelp Sponsorship 00:01:40 - Introduction of Paul Gowder and Powwows.com 00:02:22 - Paul Gowder's Journey and Inspiration for Powwows.com 00:04:27 - Addressing Loneliness and Community Building 00:08:39 - Importance of Understanding Land and History 00:13:04 - The Power of Connection through Technology 00:13:48 - Elevating Native Creators 00:15:25 - Inspiring Future Generations 00:17:01 - Explore Native Travel 00:19:10 - Preserving Traditional Arts 00:25:58 - Career Reflection and Flexibility 00:27:16 - Family Decision-making and Political Work Environment 00:29:29 - Importance of Steadiness and Representation 00:32:48 - Impact of Supreme Court Decisions on Indigenous Peoples 00:38:03 - Education and Historical Reckoning 00:39:59 - The Challenge of Generational Communication 00:41:26 - The Cultural Experience of Powwows 00:42:39 - Universal Themes of Connection 00:43:24 - Understanding Indigenous Peoples 00:48:14 - Call for Audience Participation https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you ready for a living abroad story with an unexpected twist? What if I told you that a TCK, who has traversed the globe and faced earthquake disasters, is now crowd-funding a memoir that unveils his journey through polarized worlds? This is not your ordinary travelogue. Join me in uncovering the heart-wrenching and inspiring stories that have shaped Michael Sullivan's life. Stay tuned for a peek into a world where personal growth and societal impact collide in unexpected ways. Trust me, this is a narrative you don't want to miss. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the transformative benefits of therapy for personal growth and self-awareness. Navigate the unique challenges and growth opportunities of being a Third Culture Kid. Unleash the power of personal storytelling through memoir writing for self-discovery and connection. Learn how to build bridges and foster understanding in a polarized world. Explore the profound impact of immigration on personal and societal levels. My special guest is Michael Sullivan As the host of the "Where Are You From? A TCK Podcast," Michael Sullivan brings a wealth of personal and professional experiences to the table. Growing up and living as an expat in different countries, from Thailand to the Philippines, and now residing in Turkey as an English language expert, Michael's journey as a Third Culture Kid (TCK) is both captivating and insightful. His forthcoming book, "Building Bridges: Can We Love and Relate in a Polarized World," dives into the impact of immigration and the challenges of cultural identity, offering a fresh and empathetic take on these pertinent issues. With his unique blend of memoir storytelling and global perspective, Michael is a compelling guest for anyone seeking personal growth, self-awareness, and a deeper understanding of the world's diverse cultures. We don't have to be completely comfortable with the way other people think, but we certainly can learn something from them. - Michael Sullivan The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 00:01:03 - Sponsorship and Personal Growth 00:02:40 - Welcoming Michael Sullivan 00:05:28 - Connection through Global Experiences 00:12:21 - Immigration and Understanding Perspectives 00:16:03 - Journey from Venezuela to New Mexico 00:17:12 - Unresolved Grief and Pain 00:18:07 - Bridging First and Third Worlds 00:20:51 - Overcoming Fear and Embracing Differences 00:31:53 - Hope for the Future 00:33:25 - The importance of understanding others 00:34:48 - The necessity of facing challenges 00:37:03 - The process of healing and growth 00:40:17 - Finding purpose in adversity 00:43:53 - Crowdfunding the book 00:48:02 - Building Bridges and Making a Difference 00:48:40 - Exclusive Interview with Michael Sullivan 00:49:15 - Join the Difference Maker Community 00:49:40 - Connect and Share in the Community 00:50:28 - Keep Making a Difference Follow us: https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference https://twitter.com/awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference www.tiktok.com/@aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Uncover the unexpected truth about leading global teams! This global team leader shares six powerful strategies for success, from cultural agility to building trust across time zones. Discover how leveraging diversity can drive innovation and team performance, and how to create a work environment where everyone feels valued and supported. But the real surprise lies in the simple yet profound actions that can make a world of difference in your global team. Want to know the surprising key to building trust across borders? It's not what you think! Dive into this episode to uncover the unexpected secrets to leading global teams and making a lasting impact. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering the art of leading global teams across borders can transform your leadership approach and drive remarkable team performance. Discover the key to building trust in multicultural teams and unlock the potential for unparalleled collaboration and synergy. Uncover powerful strategies for cross-cultural communication to enhance team dynamics and foster a more inclusive work environment. Explore the potential of leveraging diversity for team innovation and witness the impact it can have on creativity and problem-solving. Learn effective techniques for managing time zones in global teams to streamline operations and maximize productivity across different geographical locations. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Welcome and Introduction 00:01:17 - Leading Across Borders 00:03:11 - Cross-Cultural Communication 00:06:19 - Leveraging Diversity 00:07:12 - Building Trust and Respect Boundaries 00:13:01 - Supporting the Podcast Community 00:13:14 - Listener Appreciation 00:13:31 - Making a Difference 00:13:40 - Final Words of Encouragement Leading across borders is a rewarding challenge of modern leadership. When we embrace cultural agility, foster inclusivity, and align around a common vision, we can unlock the potential of teams with cognitive diversity, allowing them to innovate and thrive together. - Lori Adams Brown Mastering global team leadership In leading global teams across borders, mastering global team leadership is crucial for success. Understanding cultural differences and adapting leadership styles accordingly fosters collaboration. Effective communication and respect for diverse perspectives are key components in leading high-performing global teams. Connect with Lori Adams Brown on LinkedIn to send a direct message or email the show to share your thoughts and experiences in leading global teams. Join the Patreon community of difference makers to engage in deeper conversations and direct message Lori Adams Brown with your tips and experiences in leading globally. Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share the episode with someone who might find it helpful to make a difference in their own way. Use Microsoft Planner or notion boards to coordinate work across time zones and ensure effective collaboration in global teams. Reach out to Lori Adams Brown on Instagram by sending a direct message or commenting on any post related to the episode to share your thoughts and experiences in leading across borders. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help for your worklife: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever heard these myths about neurodiverse relationships? Let's bust them! Myth 1: Neurodiverse relationships are doomed to fail. Myth 2: Neurodiverse individuals can't have healthy relationships. Myth 3: Neurodiverse couples can't communicate effectively. The truth will surprise you! Stay tuned as we uncover the reality behind these myths. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover effective coaching strategies for neurodiverse couples to strengthen your relationship and communication. Uncover the impact of neurodiversity in relationships and gain insight into navigating challenges with empathy and understanding. Learn how to manage neurodiversity within family dynamics, creating a supportive and harmonious environment for everyone. Explore the unique dynamics of marital relationships involving autism and ADHD, and gain valuable insights for fostering a fulfilling partnership. Embrace the power of spiritual counseling to support neurodiverse individuals on their journey towards holistic well-being and fulfillment. My special guest is Barbara Grant Barbara Grant, a neurodiverse couples coach and spiritual counselor, brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to the table. Growing up in a tight-knit yet diverse family, Barbara's journey led her to navigate relationships with two neurodiverse husbands and a son, providing her with unique insights into the impact of neurodiversity in family dynamics. Her personal experiences have inspired her to become a mentor and a source of hope for others facing similar challenges. With her warm and empathetic approach, Barbara specializes in helping neurodiverse couples and individuals find healing and support in their relationships. Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy, along with a number of certifications as an Autism Specialist and Neurodiverse Couples Coach. To Barbara Grant, “different” means delightful. She is editor and contributing author of the book, Uniquely Us: Gracefully Navigating the Maze of Neurodiverse Marriage, Autism and Faith, which is already available for pre-orders. Anyone who needs help can request a FREE 20 min Hope & Healing consultation through her website. Find Barbara on Linkedin. "Neurodiverse people are wired differently. It's not worse, it's not better, it's different." - Barbara Grant The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Welcome and Introduction 00:03:51 - Understanding Neurodiversity 00:10:29 - Neurodiverse Relationships 00:11:00 - Neurodiverse Perspectives 00:15:02 - The Masking Experience 00:16:00 - Relational Stress and Self-Soothing 00:19:46 - Coaching Neurodiverse Couples 00:23:32 - Uniquely Us: A Book for Hope and Healing 00:28:29 - Addressing Shame and Unhealthy Behaviors 00:29:46 - Understanding Survival Mode and Trauma 00:32:36 - Healing Wounds in Marriage 00:34:36 - Navigating Neurodiversity in Faith Communities 00:39:06 - Accessing Support and Resources 00:43:29 - Embracing Neurodiversity and Building Relationships 00:45:20 - Exclusive Mini on Patreon 00:46:09 - Navigating Life's Challenges 00:47:33 - Global Reach and Impact 00:48:15 - Building Deeper Relationships 00:48:43 - Words of Encouragement Podcast Social Media Links https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Uncover the unexpected truth behind self-muting and self-sacrifice. You won't believe how cultural narratives have shaped your self-image and impacted your personal growth. Dive into this eye-opening conversation and discover the surprising power of authenticity to empower not just yourself, but those around you. Are you ready to break free from the chains of self-muting and step into your true, unapologetic self? Join us as we unravel the untold stories that have been holding you back and unlock the door to liberation. Get ready to be empowered and inspire others to do the same. In this episode, you will be able to: Unleash your authentic voice and break free from self-muting. Discover how cultural narratives shape your self-image and influence your choices. Empower yourself by understanding the emotional labor women often undertake. Learn to navigate self-sacrifice as part of your personal growth journey. Practice authenticity and empower others through your genuine presence. "Self muting doesn't just silence your voice, it also silences your impact." - Lori Adams-Brown The key moments in this episode are: 00:01:18 - Breaking free from self-muting and self-sacrifice 00:05:52 - The discomfort of being fully seen 00:11:06 - Embracing truth and sharing knowledge 00:13:56 - Unpacking the culture of self-sacrifice 00:14:25 - The Burden of Self-Sacrifice 00:17:35 - The Impact of Self-Sacrifice 00:21:29 - Steps Towards Authenticity 00:26:11 - Liberating Yourself and Others 00:27:07 - Call to Action 00:28:50 - Rate and Review the Podcast 00:29:03 - Authenticity and Self-Expression 00:29:49 - Self-Care and Healing "When we reclaim our voice, when we honor our needs and name our truths, we actually break cycles, really dysfunctional, damaging cycles that really hurt a lot of us." - Lori Adams-Brown "Freedom is really contagious. In a world that really benefits from our silence, using your voice is an act of resistance and an act of hope." - Lori Adams-Brown Subscribe to the podcast A World of Difference to stay updated on future episodes and continue leaning into conversations about making a positive impact in the world. Leave a review for the podcast on the platform you listen to, to help the community grow and continue having important conversations. Share this specific episode with someone who might need to hear it, as it could bring healing, hope, or a new perspective to them. Consider reaching out on social media platforms such as Bluesky, LinkedIn, or Substack to connect with the host, Lori Adams Brown, and engage with the community. Explore the newsletters The Global Edge on LinkedIn and A World of Difference on Substack for more in-depth discussions on various topics related to not self-muting and avoiding excessive self-sacrifice. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the weight of history and the struggle for justice, if you're tired of the whitewashed narratives and want to embrace the hard truths, then you are not alone! The journey to shalom, to a heaven on earth, requires all of us, and Lisa Sharon Harper's work is a testament to that. Are you ready to join in and make a difference? In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the far-reaching effects of American exceptionalism on global politics and culture. Explore the significance of Shalom in navigating contemporary conflicts and fostering peace. Uncover the historical impact of colonization on shaping religious beliefs and practices worldwide. Learn effective strategies for addressing and combating racial injustice in society. Recognize the importance and enduring relevance of the Equal Rights Amendment in today's world. My special guest is Lisa Sharon Harper Lisa Sharon Harper is the founder and president of Freedom Road, a groundbreaking consulting group that crafts experiences that bring common understanding and common commitments that lead to common action toward a more just world. Lisa is a public theologian whose writing, speaking, activism and training has sparked and fed the fires of re-formation in the church from Ferguson and Charlottesville to South Africa, Brazil, Australia and Ireland. Lisa’s book, Fortune: How Race Broke My Family And The World--And How To Repair It All was named one of the “Best Books of 2022” and The Very Good Gospel was named 2016 “Book of the Year” by Englewood Review of Books. Lisa is a board member of Justice Revival—the leading organization of the #Faith4ERA campaign. An Auburn Senior Fellow, Lisa is also proud to join the inaugural cohort of the Aspen Institute Racial Justice and Religion Collective. The Huffington Post identified Lisa as one of 50 Women Religious Leaders to Celebrate on International Women’s Day. Lisa is host of the Freedom Road Podcast, cohost of The FOUR Podcast and author of her weekly column, “The Truth Is…”, on Freedom Road Substack. Check out Lori's interview with Allyson McKinney Timm, Executive Director of Justice Revival on International Women's Day here. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing the Guest 00:02:47 - Personal Journey and Ancestral History 00:06:34 - Humanizing History and Faith 00:10:52 - Doing Justice in More Just Ways 00:14:09 - Democratizing Power and Agency 00:14:52 - The Image of God and Stewardship 00:16:04 - Story Reconciliation and Narrative Gap 00:17:56 - Evangelical Institutions and Narrative Reconciliation 00:19:14 - Reckoning with the Gospel 00:23:03 - Shalom and the Situation in Gaza 00:30:58 - Call for Divestment and Ceasefire 00:34:58 - History of Women's Rights in the US 00:39:36 - Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) and American Democracy 00:42:21 - Importance of Constitutional Amendments 00:45:51 - Commitment to Repair and Decolonization 00:46:25 - Eurocentrism in Scripture Interpretation 00:47:14 - Global Impact of Faith and Politics 00:48:36 - Decolonization Journey and Resources 00:49:38 - Making a Difference and Embracing Uncomfortable Conversations 00:53:52 - Pursuit of Shalom and Personal Reflection 01:00:47 - Collaboration and Making a Difference 01:01:15 - Self-Care and Rest 01:01:42 - Call to Action We must follow in the footsteps of the movements that have come before that have been faith rooted. It is up to us. - Lisa Sharon Harper https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference (Join Difference Makers today to Lisa answer the question about when women's work gets stolen, and her own personal experience with this in an exclusive interview.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the unexpected journey of a music industry disruptor who's shaking things up and challenging the status quo. Uncover how she's breaking barriers and empowering women in ways you never thought possible. Join us as we unveil the surprising twists and turns that led her to create a global platform for change. Stay tuned to find out how she's turning the tables in an industry dominated by men. You won't want to miss this eye-opening conversation. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how to empower yourself and others in the music industry. Learn about the importance of gender equality and fair pay for creators in the music industry. Explore the impact of female leadership in the tech and entertainment sectors. Gain insights into overcoming challenges in male-dominated fields within the music industry. Uncover strategies for successful female entrepreneurship in the music industry. My special guest is Shira Yevin Shira Yevin is a powerhouse in the music industry, known for her relentless pursuit of gender equality and fair pay for creators. With a background in theater, dance, and music, she co-founded the all-girl punk rock band Shiragirl. Shira's trailblazing spirit led her to crash the male-dominated Warped Tour, creating a stage for over 300 female-fronted bands. Her influential work is widely recognized and she has been a speaker at major events like SXSW, Music Ally Next, and New York Tech Week. As the CEO and founder of Gritty In Pink, a platform empowering female freelancers in the music industry, Shira continues to champion women's involvement in male-dominated spaces. Through her artistic and business acumen, she is dedicated to carving out a more inclusive and supportive industry for women through her groundbreaking marketplace, INPINK. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to A World of Difference podcast 00:00:11 - Walking through trauma 00:01:38 - Empowering women in the music industry 00:05:04 - Challenges in the male-dominated music industry 00:10:57 - Education and career approach 00:12:12 - Critical Thinking in Media Analysis 00:16:43 - Bridging Political Divides 00:18:11 - Launching Gritty and Pink 00:20:27 - Revolutionizing the Gig Economy 00:23:10 - Gender Pay Gap and Negotiation 00:23:52 - Implicit Bias and Leadership Perception 00:25:30 - Gender Equity and Male Allies 00:29:40 - Voting for Women and Girls' Dignity 00:32:47 - Overcoming Fear and Looking Forward 00:33:31 - The Need for Female Leadership in Politics 00:35:58 - Gritty Pink's Impact and Success 00:39:05 - Diversity and Authentic Support 00:41:00 - Collaborating with Music Industry Icons 00:42:48 - Normalizing Women's Sports 00:44:26 - Normalizing Women in Sports 00:44:43 - Impact Pink's Future Plans 00:46:22 - Challenges in Tech Startup 00:47:11 - Concierge Service and Client Base Expansion 00:49:25 - Thanksgiving and Gratitude Women need to get hired and need to get paid. So honestly, that's what makes me most excited is just putting dollars, like directly back in the pockets of women. - Shira Yevin Join the Difference Makers community to access exclusive content and deeper conversations with our guests. Follow Gritty and Pink on Instagram and other platforms to stay updated on their campaigns, events, and hiring opportunities. Sign up for an In Pink account at inpink.com to hire women in the music industry and access exclusive opportunities and perks. Connect with Lori Adams-Brown on Blue Sky, Threads, or Instagram to engage in conversations and share what you're thankful for during this season. Explore children's books and resources that provide a more nuanced perspective on the history of Thanksgiving and the indigenous peoples in the United States. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, Dr. Caryn A. Reeder examines the irony of the traditional interpretation of the Samaritan woman in John 4 and challenges long-held beliefs about women's roles in the church, illuminating the powerful role of women in the New Testament. Dr. Caryn A. Reeder is a professor of New Testament and the coordinator of the Gender Studies Program at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California. She is the author of several books, including The Enemy in the Household, Family Violence in Deuteronomy and beyond, Gendering War and Peace and The Gospel of Luke, and her latest book, The Samaritan Woman's Story. In this podcast episode, Caryn Reeder examines the irony of the traditional interpretation of the Samaritan woman in John 4 and challenges long-held beliefs about women's roles in the church, illuminating the powerful role of women in the New Testament. "What if we recognize that and celebrated women's words in our own churches? Oh, I do. Definitely do. Yeah. Women are really important in the narrative. In John's gospel, Jesus public ministry starts because of a woman, because his mother tells him, take care of this problem with we've run out of wine at this wedding. Take care of it, Jesus. And he does it because his mother tells him to, and that is what it says in John." Dr. Caryn A. Reeder is a professor of New Testament and the coordinator of the Gender Studies Program at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California. She is the author of several books, including The Enemy in the Household, Family Violence in Deuteronomy and beyond, Gendering War and Peace and The Gospel of Luke, and her latest book, The Samaritan Woman's Story. Caryn Reeder grew up on a farm in Illinois, where she was introduced to the Bible on an academic basis. After college, she went to Jerusalem and studied the Misinterpretation of the Samaritan Woman in the transcript. Caryn discovered that the traditional interpretation of the woman being an immoral outcast was damaging and silenced her story. Despite the traditional perspective of women being silenced, Caryn realized that in the New Testament, women were important participants and patrons in the early Christian communities. Caryn is now on a mission to change the perspective of women in the church and to celebrate their words. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How did the Bible's interpretation change over time and around the world? 2. What is the real story behind the conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan woman? 3. What challenges does the conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan woman pose to our views on gender, identity and who is worthy to understand and respond to Jesus? Resources: The Samaritan Woman's Story: Reconsidering John 4 After #Churchtoo Buy the book at the link above from IVP with code: AWORLD23 to get 30 percent off the ebook and physical book (plus free shipping) Other episodes you'll enjoy: Hannah Nation on Faithful Disobedience in China's House Churches Jenai Auman on Spiritual Abuse Survivors Winfield Bevins on Liturgical Mission Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Website: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here Chapter Summaries: [00:00:02] This episode is a special one for those of us who are interested in what the Bible actually says about certain women and from a woman's perspective. Dr. Karen A. Reeder is a professor of New Testament and coordination of the Gender Studies Program at Westmont College. She's here to talk about her latest book with IVP Press, the Samaritan Woman's Story. [00:01:39] Welcome to the world of Difference Podcast. I think there are many who have misunderstood the Samaritan woman for various reasons. I'm very excited about what we're going to discuss today. [00:02:11] Author's research has often been centered around issues of violence and family life and gender in the Bible. She says the women of the Bible preached about or researched or theologically understood through the lens of women has been lacking for a long time. For her, it's just a hobby. [00:05:07] What would you say we have gotten wrong about the Samaritan woman? Most sermons on her had all been preached by men. Once she started reading more like female theologians, she realized there was a different perspective. How do you walk through that? [00:14:46] The contrast in John's gospel between Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman challenges a lot of our stereotypes. It can be a lesson for us in the church to respect women in a way that Jesus does. [00:25:15] We have a couple of texts in the New Testament that do seem to silence women. But all the books are really contextual. They're written to particular people who are experiencing particular situations. What would you say to someone who says it's not okay for women to preach? [00:26:38] In the New Testament, we have a witness to women's significance, importance and contributions to the church. Maybe we shouldn't prioritize One Timothy chapter Two over this wide array of evidence. It's playing fast and loose with scripture when you don't take the time to look into something. [00:30:37] Some scholars have argued that what happened in the Church was connected to what was happening in Roman society more generally. Even though we have the primary voices of the time saying women should not have authority, women were still doing it. Reincorporating those women into our church history is also really important. [00:34:31] My New Testament intro classes are one of the classes that all students at Westmont College are expected to take. Using those as lenses to help read Scripture is really revolutionary for a lot of students. Getting the lenses to examine scripture and what it might have meant for its earliest audiences is a game changer. [00:36:15] Coming back to this issue of Women and the Bible. I gave the students a chapter from Kat Armis's Abuelita Theology. It sparked so much conversation among the students. I hope that it will open a whole new way of reading and understanding scripture. [00:38:43] Lori ADBR: In this Change series, we're embracing change. She says it can be very uncomfortable to change our minds. But when new information comes our way, we get to take it in, research it, try to understand it. She hopes this podcast has brought new information to you. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join us on Patreon If you haven't joined us yet on Patreon, this is your official invitation to join us as we go deeper in the conversation. patreon.com/aworldofdifference Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the unexpected side of a remarkable leader, Julie Castro Abrams, as she shares her journey and vision for women's empowerment. Stay tuned to find out her surprising hopes for 2025 and the inspiring work she's doing to make a difference worldwide. Don't miss out on this exclusive conversation that will leave you feeling inspired and empowered. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering the art of empowering women in leadership roles leads to increased career fulfillment and success. Uncover effective strategies for building diverse boards and creating an inclusive workplace culture. Explore the critical importance of diversity in corporate governance and its impact on organizational success. Discover powerful ways to support women entrepreneurs and startups, driving innovation and economic growth. Learn how to navigate career growth and seize board opportunities, propelling your professional journey to new heights. My special guest is Julie Castro Abrams Julie Castro Abrams, the CEO and Founder of How Women Lead, is a highly accomplished expert in empowering women in leadership roles and driving diversity in corporate governance. With a strong commitment to justice and community, Julie has played pivotal leadership roles in various organizations focused on women, children, Latinos, economic development, and the arts. Her extensive accolades, including the Women of Color Action Network Leadership Award and her role as Governance Chair for the Women's Funding Network, attest to her significant impact in supporting women entrepreneurs and startups. Julie's dedication to creating a supportive network for women and her proven ability to facilitate rich conversations that drive change make her an invaluable asset in navigating career growth and board opportunities for women. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Welcome and Introduction 00:03:27 - Personal and Professional Development 00:09:46 - The Credo of How Women Lead 00:10:16 - Supportive Network and Advocacy 00:12:44 - Visibility and Empowerment 00:13:27 - Taking Up Your Power 00:14:33 - Countercultural Behaviors 00:16:37 - Celebrating Black Women's Leadership 00:18:53 - Unabashedly Visible Struggle 00:23:31 - Disrupting Groupthink on Boards 00:26:16 - Importance of Diversity in Decision Making 00:28:35 - Empowerment through Women's Retreats 00:32:06 - Evolution of How Women Lead's Programming 00:33:18 - Addressing Gender Equity in Venture Funding 00:36:14 - Reversing Cultural Narratives of Division 00:39:32 - Encouraging Women to Pursue Leadership Roles 00:40:26 - Normalizing Conversations about Leadership 00:41:03 - Redefining Masculinity 00:43:36 - Creating Supportive Spaces for Women 00:49:33 - Hopes for 2025 Connect with Julie Castro Abrams on LinkedIn to stay updated on her work and initiatives. Visit www.howwomenlead.com to learn more about How Women Lead and their programs for women's leadership and board opportunities. Join the Difference Makers community on Patreon at www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference to access exclusive content, including additional insights from Julie Castro Abrams and other guests. Explore other interviews and articles featuring Julie Castro Abrams to gain further insights into her work and expertise. Consider supporting and advocating for women in your network by encouraging them to explore leadership roles and opportunities, and by recognizing and valuing their contributions. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special Bonus episode for US Inauguration Day and MLK Day for those who just need rest to build resilience for what lies ahead. If you're feeling overwhelmed and exhausted from pushing yourself to the limit, trying to be productive, and yet still feeling burnt out, then you are not alone! In this episode, you will be able to: Discover effective burnout prevention strategies for high-stress work environments. Learn how to cultivate resilience and thrive in the face of stress and pressure. Explore the power of body awareness as a tool for managing and reducing stress. Master the art of setting healthy boundaries to maintain well-being in the workplace. Embrace the Danish concept of Hygge to enhance overall well-being and happiness. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to A World of Difference podcast 00:03:57 - Body Awareness: The Key to Preventing Burnout 00:08:35 - Setting Healthy Boundaries for Resilience 00:10:48 - Embracing Being Cozy and Just Being 00:12:58 - Discovering Hygge 00:13:48 - Embracing Hygge Practices 00:16:36 - Collective Responsibility 00:18:29 - Burnout Prevention 00:20:44 - Gratitude and Call to Action Lori Adams-Brown, the host of "A World of Difference," shares a personal journey of learning about burnout prevention and resilience. From her experiences working in disaster relief in Sumatra to her current role in Silicon Valley, she emphasizes the importance of body awareness, setting healthy boundaries, and embracing the concept of "hygge" for well-being. Her narrative-style delivery paints a relatable picture of her struggles and growth, evoking empathy and understanding from the audience. Through her candid storytelling, Lori invites the listeners to join her in exploring the path to resilience and burnout prevention, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences. With so many disrupting, resisting and making a difference to prevent oligarchy in global politics leading up to the US inauguration day and remembering the collective good that came from Dr. King's leadership that we celebrate on MLK Day, it's ok to rest and to protect your peace for what lies ahead. Let's take care of ourselves and each other. There is much work to do to make our world a better place, and it starts with rest and resilience-building. Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. Check out the LinkedIn article The 3B's of Burnout Prevention for Resilient Leaders written by Lori Adams Brown and share your thoughts in the comments section. Incorporate the three Bs (Body awareness, Boundaries, and Being cozy) into your life and leadership to build resilient teams equipped to navigate challenges with strength and clarity. Share your thoughts and research on burnout prevention on social media or in the comments section of the episode to contribute to the ongoing conversation. Take a moment to thank someone who has made a difference in your life and remind them that their efforts matter whether it's resisting oligarchy, working in global politics this US inauguration day, resisting with MLK Day or being a caring influence in your life. "Burnout prevention is not just an individual responsibility, it's a collective one. Together we can create workplaces that prioritize well-being, foster resilience, and drive sustainable success together." - Lori Adams Brown Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Bluesky TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're feeling stuck in your career, constantly repeating the same thing year after year, and feeling like there's no opportunity for growth, then you are not alone! Breaking out of that feeling of being trapped in a box can seem overwhelming, but there's a way forward. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how professional coaching can propel your career to new heights. Learn how coaching can break through career plateaus and reignite your professional journey. Uncover the essential skills needed to excel as a new manager through an engaging workshop. Explore the impact of AI on future job markets and how to stay ahead in your career. Gain insights into fostering psychological safety in the workplace for a more positive and inclusive environment. My special guest is Kim Nicol Kim Nicol, an accomplished certified coach specializing in mindfulness, communication, and leadership, brings a unique blend of experiences to the table. From her background as a lawyer to her role as a yoga teacher and meditation instructor, Kim's diverse journey has equipped her with invaluable insights into career transitions and leadership development. As the creator of the essential skills for new managers workshop at General Assembly in San Francisco and the host of the new manager podcast, she has made a significant impact on individuals across diverse industries. With her expertise in cultivating psychological safety in the workplace, Kim offers a fresh and insightful perspective for those navigating career advancements and seeking support. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing the World of Difference Podcast 00:01:20 - Guest Introduction - Kim Nicol 00:03:01 - Diversity in Career and Culture 00:06:33 - Challenges of New Manager Training 00:13:29 - Importance of Communication Skills 00:15:09 - Importance of Manager Support and Development 00:16:38 - Impact of Managers on Employee Experience 00:19:22 - Career Advancement for Women 00:21:58 - Overcoming Barriers for Women in the Workplace 00:26:31 - Importance of Coaching for New Managers 00:30:09 - The Power of Networking 00:34:30 - Embracing Humanity in Leadership 00:37:21 - Overcoming Career Stagnation 00:42:04 - Finding Support and Tools 00:45:53 - The Power of Coaching 00:46:33 - Finding Direction in Life 00:47:07 - Support in Challenging Times 00:48:24 - Exclusive Insights with Kim 00:48:52 - Making a Difference https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference (Join us for an exclusive EPS with Kim where host Lori Adams-Brown asks her about her life's biggest influence. She shares an inspiring story of immigration and grit from someone very special in her life. Don't miss it!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** JESSICA STONE’S WORK HAS APPEARED IN THE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST, YAHOO FINANCE, STANSBERRY RESEARCH, PUBLIC RADIO INTERNATIONAL, USA TODAY, THE WASHINGTON TIMES, AND ACROSS THE COUNTRY AT THE NATION’S CBS AND FOX STATIONS. She picked up many of her cross-cultural observations while reporting for China Global Television in Brazil, China, Canada, and Vietnam, including the second summit between Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump in Hanoi. In 2016 and 2012, Jessica was the lead political reporter for the network during the U.S. presidential race. She also co-anchored coverage of the historic 2016 presidential race. Jessica also broke a series of reports on the death of Private Danny Chen, a Chinese-American soldier who was so badly hazed, he committed suicide. In 2013, she released her first documentary: Oil Sands at a Crossroads about Chinese investment in Canada’s oil sands production. Jessica’s political coverage includes the 2016 and 2012 presidential races, the midterms in 2018, 2014, and 2010 – including an interview with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and live coverage from the unexpected three-way US Senate Race for Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski. Jessica also covered the GTMO trial of Ibrahim Al-Qosi, an associate of Osama Bin Laden, and the aftermath of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti. In 2009, she embedded with the U.S. Army’s 10 Mountain Division to cover the national presidential elections in Afghanistan. She is fluent in French and a member of Investigative Reporters & Editors. She is a past president and vice president of the White House Foreign Press Group and a member of the White House Correspondents’ Association. Jessica's book Crossing the Divide and her course by the same name are available. The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Karen González is a speaker, writer, storyteller, and immigrant advocate, who herself immigrated from Guatemala as a child. Karen is a former public school teacher and attended Fuller Theological Seminary, where she studied theology and missiology. For the last 15 years, she has been a non-profit professional. She wrote a book about her own immigration story and some of the immigrants found in the Bible: The God Who Sees: Immigrants, The Bible, and the Journey to Belong (Herald Press, May 2019). Karen’s second book is Beyond Welcome: Centering Immigrants in our Christian Response to Immigration (Brazos Press, October 2022). She also has bylines in Sojourners, Christianity Today, The Christian Century, and others. Karen is the co-host of the Latina-focused podcast Cafe with Comadres. She lives in Baltimore, MD with her cat Oscar. --- Karen Gonzalez Order my new book: Beyond Welcome Co-host of Cafe with Comadres Podcast Sign up for Karen's newsletter!  Follow her on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you ready to uncover the unexpected truth about workplace bullying and abuse tactics? Get ready to be surprised as we dive deep into the world of psychological safety and resilience in high-stress work environments. This story takes us on a journey through unexpected parallels in global leadership, leaving us with an open loop of empowerment and a call to action. Stay tuned to discover the powerful strategies for dealing with workplace mobbing and intimidation, and how leaders are healing from psychological abuse. You won't want to miss this eye-opening revelation. "Your story matters. Your voice matters. And together, we expose these power structures, and we demand better for our workplaces, for our world." - Lori Adams-Brown In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the importance of psychological safety in global leadership for building trust and collaboration. Recognize and address workplace bullying and intimidation tactics to create a healthier work environment. Explore the effects of narcissistic abuse in leadership to better understand its impact on individuals and teams. Learn effective strategies for dealing with workplace mobbing to protect yourself and others in high-stress environments. Discover the potential for healing from psychological abuse with EMDR therapy, offering hope for recovery and resilience. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Welcome and Introduction 00:00:23 - Walking Through Trauma 00:01:38 - Renewed Commitment 00:02:28 - Women's History Month 00:05:20 - Psychological Warfare 00:13:57 - Abuse of Power and Manipulation 00:15:50 - Narcissistic Abuse and Endorsement 00:17:40 - Self-Reflection and Inner Healing 00:19:31 - Bullying and Intimidation 00:23:40 - Gaslighting and DARVO 00:26:30 - Building Support and Smear Campaigns 00:27:13 - Coercive Control and Payoff for Silence 00:28:32 - False Attacks on Character 00:31:02 - Psychological Abuse and Mobbing 00:35:13 - Refusing to be Silent "Bullies don't win when we refuse to be silent. Abusers count on secrecy. But when we tell the truth, when we step out in courage, courage is contagious. And we take their power away." - Lori Adams-Brown Subscribe to the A World of Difference podcast to stay updated on future episodes and continue leaning into important conversations. Leave a review for the podcast to share your thoughts and help the community grow. Share this specific episode with someone who might need to hear it, as your support helps in spreading important messages and reaching more people. Listen to episode 102 of A World of Difference titled The Gaslighting and the Flanking to hear the full story and gain a deeper understanding of workplace bullying and abuse. Consider exploring the work of Dr. Chuck de Groat and Dr. Wade Mullen, who have been featured on the podcast and provide valuable insights into therapeutic and research-based approaches to understanding abuse in systems and individuals. "Keep speaking up, keep standing firm, and never, ever, ever let the bullies win." - Lori Adams-Brown Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here's a compelling hook for you: "Discover the unexpected journey of an immigrant's resilience and the power of collective action in creating a limitless life. Join us as we uncover the surprising impact of scarcity mentality and how to overcome it with empowerment and empathy. You won't want to miss this eye-opening conversation that will leave you inspired and motivated for positive change." In this episode, you will be able to: Uncover an inspiring immigrant success story in the US with so many unequitable obstacles and learn from their journey to triumph over challenges and bring change. Master effective networking strategies for career growth and take your professional connections to the next level. Forge a path together with the ultimate workbook guide designed to help you break free from limitations. Unleash the impact of collective power on social change and learn how you can be a part of creating a better world through united action. My special guest is Esther Zeledón Meet Dr. Esther Zeledón, affectionately known as Doctor Ez, a resilient Latina immigrant and a force to be reckoned with. Her journey spans a wide range of roles, from entrepreneur and speaker to coach, award-winning diplomat, and international development professional. A true activist, mentor, extreme couponer, travel guru, dance queen, scientist, and author, Dr. Ez's latest book and number one workbook, "Creating Your Limitless Life on Your Terms," is a testament to her ability to guide others toward a life of fulfillment and joy. She leverages her diverse experiences to foster transformational change and build collective power, rooted in purpose, joy, peace, health, love, and prosperity. Dr. Ez's inspiring journey and insights make her a guiding light for those seeking to unleash their limitless potential and make a difference in the world. Follow Esther: Instagram LinkedIn TikTok The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:01:06 - Introduction to Dr. Esther Zeledón 00:02:21 - Discussion on Venezuelan Elections 00:03:00 - Impact of Political Decisions 00:04:49 - Importance of Collective Action 00:14:38 - Unpacking Vision and Superpowers 00:18:39 - Embracing Diversity and Superpowers 00:21:55 - Scarcity Mentality in Politics 00:25:08 - Fostering Abundance Mindset 00:27:49 - Challenging Limiting Narratives 00:29:19 - Immigration and Economic Opportunity 00:31:57 - Immigrant Experience 00:35:57 - Navigating the System 00:39:36 - Overcoming Discrimination 00:40:36 - Modeling Authenticity and Inclusion 00:41:23 - Overcoming Stereotypes and Bias 00:43:23 - Writing a Memoir and Challenging Scrutiny 00:45:48 - Building Resilience and Empathy 00:49:44 - Creating Your Limitless Life 00:54:10 - Spreading Hope and Inspiration 00:54:55 - Impact of the Podcast 00:55:23 - Call to Action 00:55:53 - Exclusive Content and Community Follow the pod: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference (for an exclusive EPS with Esther & more content not available anywhere else) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, you will be able to: Learn to challenge and change sexist attitudes in your church community. Discover the untapped potential of women in church leadership roles. Understand how patriarchal norms impact women in various industries. Uncover ways to recognize and overcome unconscious sexism and bias. Explore effective strategies for empowering and supporting women in church leadership. My special guest is Heather Matthews Heather Matthews, a dedicated advocate for women in church leadership, brings a unique blend of practical experience and academic expertise to the conversation. With a background in pastoral work, church planting, and leadership roles in nonprofits and academia, she offers a well-rounded perspective on confronting sexism in the church. Holding a DMin from Fuller Seminary, a master's in educational ministry, an MA in Counseling Ministry from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a bachelor's in biomedical engineering from Northwestern University, Dr. Matthews' qualifications speak to her commitment and breadth of knowledge. Her book, "Confronting Sexism in the Church: How We Got Here and What We Can Do About It," not only reflects her extensive research but also resonates with her personal experiences, establishing her as a credible and relatable voice for those seeking to address the challenges faced by women in church leadership. The key moments in this episode are: 00:01:55 - Confronting Sexism in the Church 00:06:06 - Sexism in Politics 00:13:26 - Personal Journey and Advocacy 00:15:00 - Recognizing Sexism in Evangelical Churches 00:16:29 - Hidden Sexism in Egalitarian Spaces 00:20:54 - Gender Bias in Leadership Positions 00:27:38 - From Biomedical Engineering to Ministry 00:30:52 - Historical and Cultural Factors of Sexism 00:31:03 - The Influence of History on Sexism in the Church 00:32:02 - Political Impact on Women in the Church 00:33:33 - Recognition of Women's Contributions and Achievements 00:39:51 - Sexist Tropes and Stereotypes 00:45:12 - Creating Supportive Environments for Women in Churches 00:46:40 - Challenges for Women in Church Leadership 00:48:10 - Intersection of Sexism, Abuse, and Trauma 00:49:22 - Traditional Beliefs and Abuse in the Church 00:51:35 - Confronting Sexism in the Church Challenge patriarchal norms and advocate for gender equality In a world where patriarchal norms still dominate, confronting sexism in the church becomes crucial to advocate for gender equality and challenge traditional power structures. Through insightful discussions and personal experiences, the episode sheds light on the importance of addressing deep-seated biases and promoting inclusivity in church leadership roles. By encouraging dialogue and action, listeners are empowered to challenge patriarchal norms and create a more equitable environment for women in church communities. Purchase the book Confronting Sexism in the Church by Dr. Heather Matthews on Amazon or any other online book retailer to educate yourself and continue the work on the issue of sexism. Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review to help spread the word and support the community's growth. Share this episode with someone who might need to hear it to help spread awareness and start important conversations about confronting sexism. Join the Difference Makers community to gain access to exclusive content and continue the conversation about the future of church leadership and gender equality. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, you will be able to: Embrace diverse identities in the workplace to foster inclusivity and collaboration. Overcome barriers for Latina leaders and unlock your full potential in corporate environments. Implement successful strategies for business acquisitions to drive growth and expansion. Lead authentically and build team trust to elevate your leadership impact. Understand the impact of geopolitical tensions on immigrants to navigate challenges effectively. My special guest is Tricia Montalvo Timm Tricia Montalvo Timm, a powerhouse in the corporate world, is no stranger to breaking barriers and achieving remarkable success. As a first-generation Latina, she has carved a path of influence in Silicon Valley, driving strategic counsel for high-tech giants and playing a pivotal role in the acquisition of Looker by Google. Her outstanding contributions have earned her prestigious accolades, including the 2020 Women of Influence and Latino Business Leadership Awards. With her recent book, "Embrace the Power of You: Owning Your Identity at Work," Tricia empowers others to embrace their cultural heritage and excel in their professional journeys. Her invaluable insights and unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion make her a relatable and inspiring voice for Latina professionals navigating the complexities of corporate environments. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the podcast 00:00:32 - Importance of therapy during trauma 00:04:48 - Influence of culture and family on personal development 00:08:14 - The power of sharing personal story 00:13:55 - Embracing the power of own identity at work 00:13:58 - Overcoming Barriers to Diversity and Inclusion 00:18:25 - Impact of Geopolitical Tensions on the Workplace 00:23:56 - Lessons in Authentic Leadership 00:26:21 - Psychological Safety and Self-Awareness in Leadership 00:27:03 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts 00:27:05 - Embracing Values and Authenticity 00:28:14 - Advice for Women in Leadership 00:31:43 - Leading a High-Stakes Deal 00:34:35 - Inspiring Aspiring Leaders 00:37:16 - Embracing Human Kindness 00:41:27 - Embracing Diversity and Inclusion 00:42:23 - Own Your Identity at Work 00:43:33 - Inclusive Decision Making 00:45:26 - Overcoming Bias 00:47:12 - Making a Difference Subscribe to the podcast to stay updated on future episodes and continue leaning into these important conversations. Leave a review for the podcast to share your thoughts and help the community grow. Share this episode with someone who might need to hear it, spreading the message and impact of the conversation. Check out Tricia Montalvo Timm's book, Embrace the Power of You: Owning Your Identity at Work, available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, to gain further insights and inspiration. Connect with Tricia Montalvo Timm on LinkedIn or Instagram to stay updated on her work and insights. "Believe in yourself. Take a leap of faith. Go for it. Don't be afraid to fail. The way I look at failures, it's just data. It's information. It's information. It didn't work. Why didn't it work? We'll figure out another way and continue to just believe. I got through with resilience and grit." - Tricia Montalvo Timm Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thanks to each of you who listened, shared the podcast, subscribed and recommended this podcast to your loved ones. Happy Holidays, Difference Makers! See you next year for an episode with Michelle Moffitt to start the New Year off. Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon Bluesky TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Lori Adams-Brown on the A World of Difference Podcast as she takes on the issue of abuse and cover-ups within the Southern Baptist Convention. As a survivor of abuse herself, Lori advocates for the importance of sharing survivor stories, and calls out abusive churches and pastors. She urges Echo.church and the Southern Baptist Convention to prioritize listening to and believing survivors and to end the use of NDAs. Lori stresses that it's time to let the truth set everyone free and calls for a collective effort toward healing and restoration. Don't miss this powerful and moving episode of A World of Difference. Looking for a podcast that tackles tough issues with honesty and transparency? Look no further than A World of Difference, hosted by Lori Adams-Brown. In this eye-opening episode, Adams-Brown pulls back the curtain on the ongoing problem of abuse and cover-up within the Southern Baptist Convention. Drawing on her own experiences as a survivor of abuse at the hands of a former Southern Baptist pastor, Adams-Brown offers a unique perspective on the problem and the need for change within the church community. Throughout the podcast, Adams-Brown challenges listeners to confront the reality of abuse and to take a stand against those who would perpetrate it. She calls for greater transparency and openness within the church, urging faith communities everywhere to center and believe survivors who share their stories of abuse. Along the way, she shares powerful insights and tools for healing from trauma, including the importance of building a support system and cultivating mindfulness. If you're looking for a podcast that's unafraid to tackle the tough issues and speak out for change, A World of Difference is the series for you. Tune in now to join the conversation and become part of the movement to end abuse and promote healing within the Southern Baptist Convention and beyond. Timestamps [00:00:02] Women Pastors and Abuse Allegations in Southern Baptist Convention [00:03:28] Speaking out against abuse in Southern Baptist community [00:07:08] Leaving Denomination Over Religious Abuse [00:11:03] Importance of survivors sharing stories and releasing NDAs [00:14:58] Advocating for Women's Voices in Southern Baptist Convention [00:19:14] Taking Action Against Abuse and Supporting Survivors [00:22:44] Prioritizing accountability and truth in the church Episode Links Podcast Series where Lori Adams-Brown and Jason Adams-Brown share their story of psychological and spiritual abuse at a megachurch in Silicon Valley: Our Story Podcast Series Quotes [00:04:29] Here's me addressing some of these issues as a whistleblower as somebody who has walked through abuse and trauma recovery and wants to warn people about a wolf that is among us and all the smoke and mirrors surrounding the image management that would distract us from 1 of the main issues that should be addressed right now, which is the abuse and the abuse allegations and the cover up [00:04:52] It's not always what happened, it's how people respond and the cover up is some of the most painful parts of what many of you and the abuse survivor community have walked through myself included who not only had the board of my own church sort of circle the wagons and be Yes men and cover up everything with image management [00:07:02] I can no longer, as of a few years ago, be a part of a denomination that has chosen to cover up abuse Because of silent bystanders, because of money, because of power, because of all the things we see that happen to whistle blowers and all of it makes sense. And yet it doesn't make sense at all [00:09:06] It pains me to see so many people hurting and reeling from trauma after emotional abuse, psychological abuse, verbal abuse, spiritual abuse, labor abuse, financial abuse, abusive power that included bullying, intimidation, coercion, name calling, gaslighting, isolating, slandering, recording without our consent, making certain staff so miserable All Quotes [00:04:29] Here's me addressing some of these issues as a whistleblower as somebody who has walked through abuse and trauma recovery and wants to warn people about a wolf that is among us and all the smoke and mirrors surrounding the image management that would distract us from 1 of the main issues that should be addressed right now, which is the abuse and the abuse allegations and the cover up [00:05:38] And so we warn so that others don't have to walk through this. So I offer this to you, and let me know what you think. It's been a hard 3 or 4 years, maybe more. There are systems we're challenging. There are systems we trusted that we no longer trust. There are skeletons behind closets that have shocked us all. And there are dark secrets behind curtains that some saw for many years and decades and generations and others have only recently [00:07:02] I can no longer, as of a few years ago, be a part of a denomination that has chosen to cover up abuse [00:08:16] And when there is good and bad mixed in, it can be so easy to just ignore the bad and focus on the good, and there's nothing wrong with seeing beauty, but at the same time if there is something poisoning our community of is a cancer that is killing us [00:12:24] It is time to release the NDAs, and I call up on southern Baptist to urge Felipe Santos to release the NDAs to urge Andy Wood and work Warren to tell Felipe Santos that those NDAs must be released so that survivors can make their own choice as to whether or not they share their stories [00:02:36] And as many of you know, my my journey of walking through abuse, trauma recovery over the past couple of years has been I've had to keep my world a little bit smaller [00:15:20] Being a lead pastor of a mega church is hard. It requires listening. To women, especially when they bring challenge to one's blind spots, it requires a devotion to truth a heart of a caring shepherd, and a posture of helping staff do their jobs better [00:09:06] It pains me to see so many people hurting and reeling from trauma after emotional abuse, psychological abuse, verbal abuse, spiritual abuse, labor abuse, financial abuse, abusive power that included bullying, intimidation, coercion, name calling, gaslighting, isolating, slandering, recording without our consent, making certain staff so miserable that [00:09:35] Retaliation against employees who reported abuse by being fired and given NDAs tied to severance and medical insurance [00:09:56] Some of you have had to do EMDR therapy to get rid of the trauma nightmares that you have had for years from 1 on 1 meetings that you had each with Andy Wood and Felipe Santos separately, and occasionally the 2 of those with just you in a room behind closed stores, where there was no 1, there was no 1 to be by your side and vouch for you, and there was no 1 to bear witness, and there was no 1 to have another narrative as you were being gaslit [00:14:23] Whether or not the SBC lets Andywood or Saddleback, Church back into the SBC will show whether abuse really matters [00:16:02] A mega church lead pastor's words have power to sway minds, distract from truth, and cover up abuse with a stage and a microphone, leaving survivors falsely accused, discredited. And their abuse covered up [00:10:49] Others stayed here and lost the community when you were shunned for speaking out about what happened, or just because you left or were fired and a false narrative was created that you had quit [00:00:53] I know many of you in this community identify as Southern Baptist currently. And some of you previously identified as Southern Baptist, or were a part of that denomination for many years [00:07:30] Because of silent bystanders, because of money, because of power, because of all the things we see that happen to whistle blowers and all of it makes sense. And yet it doesn't make sense at all [00:13:43] There's a struggle to be heard. There's in just repeated on a flywheel of abuse that lures and grooms and love bombs, not with candy or a white van, but with free mugs and free t shirts and lavish parties and young professionals that can find someone to date and a stage with big smiles and free concerts every Sunday [00:03:00] I've intentionally brought around me as a village of healers with your different areas of expertise, being subject matter experts and just professionals in the way that has helped me heal through coaching and spiritual direction and therapist and just all the different parts of this village that has been such a blessing to me [00:00:23] There are continuing to be mega church pastors and small church pastors who are being accused of abuse. And this is not new [00:02:04] I've had a few of you reach out just to hear my perspective to, you know, want me to kinda week into it either on your podcast or or into articles [00:04:52] It's not always what happened, it's how people respond and the cover up is some of the most painful parts of what many of you and the abuse survivor community have walked through myself included who not only had the board of my own church sort of circle the wagons and be Yes men and cover up everything with image management Lori Adams-Brown's podcast provides valuable insights into the issue of women pastors and the controversy surrounding the Southern Baptist Convention. It is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the situation. Quote: "I know many of you in this community identify as Southern Baptist currently. And some of you previously identified as Southern Baptist, or were a part of that denomination for many years. And others of you are just people of faith of many different faith backgrounds, whether it's a Christian background, or a Jewish background, Muslim, any of you who are in faith communities are also expressing concern about what has been going on here in the United States around the situation with the Southern Baptist convention." Quote: "And so I've had a few of you reach out just to hear my perspective, to want me to kinda week into it either on your podcast or into articles. And so I'm just really busy right now with my job that I love and my family that I have been time with. And as many of you know, my journey of walking through abuse, trauma recovery over the past couple of years has been I've had to keep my world a little bit smaller. Just to heal." Other EPS you may enjoy: Kate Wallace Nunneley on Women Pastors & the Junia Project Dr. Nijay Gupta- Uncovering Her Story: How Women Led, Taught and Ministered in the Early Church Dr. Lynn Cohick, a New Testament Scholar on Women Leading in the Early Church Dr. Beth Allison Barr on Women Leaders in Church History and Implications in the SBC Dr. Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer on Exposing Abuse, Centering Whistleblowers and Cultivating Goodness in Church Dr. Wade Mullen on Impression Management After Abuse Allegations and How to Decode the False Narratives to Hide Dark Secrets Behind the Curtain For further research: Narcissism and the Systems it Breeds video of Dr. Diane Langberg's presentation When Narcissism Comes to Church by Dr. Chuck DeGroat A Church Called TOV by Dr. Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer Redeeming Power: Understanding Authority and Abuse in the Church by Dr. Diane Langberg Talk Dr. Wade Mullen gave at the Restore conference in Chicago. Something’s Not Right: Decoding the Hidden Tactics of Abuse – and Freeing Yourself From Its Power by Dr. Wade Mullen Dr. Wade Mullen's dissertation titled “Impression Management Strategies Used by Evangelical Organizations in the Wake of an Image-threatening Event.” You can get that dissertation for free here. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the World of Difference podcast, Dr. Nijay Gupta, a Hindu background Christian and seminary professor, uses his privilege to uncover the hidden female figures in the New Testament and challenge the long-standing patriarchal lens on the Bible to foster an atmosphere of equality and inclusion in the church. "Just like that with the Bible. And we have failed. I have failed in the past to see these women, to recognize them, to admire them, and to tell their story." - Dr. Nijay Gupta Dr. Nijay Gupta is a professor at Northern Seminary of New Testament and author of the book "Tell Her Story: How Women Led, Taught, and Ministered in the Early Church". He is a Hindu background Christian who has dedicated his life to studying the Bible and training Christian leaders. Dr. Nijay Gupta was raised in a Southern Baptist denomination and experienced a male-centric view of the Bible. He realized that many of the stories about the women in the Bible had been hidden, and set out to make them known. After many years of research and writing, he released his book, "Tell Her Story," which explores the roles of women in the Bible, and their importance. He explains how the cultural and socioeconomic status of these women was incredibly important to understand their stories, and how they were able to lead, despite the patriarchal views of the time. Dr. Gupta hopes that by uncovering the hidden figures of the New Testament, the Church will be able to recognize the importance of women's voices and use their God-given gifts for the benefit of all. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. Exploring the nuance of women leading in the early church, how has the long-standing tradition of egalitarian theology impacted the way we view women in the Bible today? 2. Examining the role of women in the church, how can we create an environment of shoulder-to-shoulder collaboration between male and female leaders? 3. Leveraging male privilege to elevate women, how can we use our male privilege to create a space for women to use their God-given gifts and preach the gospel? Resources: Order Tell Her Story here. Other episodes you'll enjoy: Allyson McKinney Timm on the Faith 4 ERA Campaign Dr. Mimi Haddad on Christians for Biblical Equality Kate Wallace Nunneley on the Junia Project Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ Website: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here Chapter Summaries: [00:00:02] Dr. Nijay Gupta is a professor at Northern Seminary of New Testament. He is the author of a book called tell Her Story. How Women Taught Led. We're thrilled to have him on the church during Women's History Month. [00:02:57] Dr. Nijay Gupta is on the World of Difference podcast today. He talks about his new book, Tell Her Story. He says it's moving towards spring in California. People are really excited for your book release. [00:03:45] Lori: What brought you into being interested in biblical studies? Lori: I grew up in a Hindu family, became a believer in Jesus as a teenager. I've been teaching for almost 15 years. I love the work I do. Lori: It really is important to me to know who was part of the translation process. [00:07:08] There's been a lot of misunderstanding around women in the New Testament. The author changed her mind after doing a blog series called Why I Believe in Women in Ministry. Tell us more about the book and what readers are going to gain from it. [00:14:37] A lot of my book is about stepping out of some of the artificial frameworks we use. Where women were teachers, apostles, prisoners for the Lord. It's far past time that we give them the credit that is owed to them. The church job or office of pastor is a modern phenomenon. [00:25:09] Lydia is a businesswoman. Paul preaches to her, and her whole household is converted. She is a natural leader, and the apostles don't chide her for that. When we're not letting women use their Godgiven gifts in the church, we all miss out. [00:27:40] Southern Baptist Convention has kicked out Saddleback Church in California. Lori Penny: In many churches where it looks as though women can lead, but in reality they're not really leading. Penny: We need to return to some older ways of careful, honest, authentic, open, vulnerable discipleship. [00:41:00] Paul says Junior is a prisoner for the sake of the Gospel. She represents what we think of as the first generation of Christianity. Just imagining the bravery and the faith of these women that we don't talk enough about inspired this book. [00:43:58] EJ: How can people find you? I want to make sure people follow your podcast your blog, all your writing and what you're doing. For our patreon supporters, we're going to do an exclusive episode here in a second with him around some of the stuff that's gone on at Northern Seminary. Sign up for this month so that you can be a part of hearing this conversation. [00:46:04] Dr. Nijay Gupta's latest book is Tell Her Story how women led, taught and ministered in the early Church. We recorded an exclusive interview with him around what's going on at Northern Seminary. Join our patreon community for as little as $5 a month and get free merch. Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine redefining success on your own terms, only to find out that the key to fulfillment lies in the unexpected wisdom of diverse global cultures. In a world where success is often equated with wealth and power, what if I told you that true success is deeply personal and universally powerful? Let's dive into the surprising ways different cultures define success, and how it can reshape your own definition of success. Are you ready to unravel the unexpected secrets that could lead you to your own unique path of success? Join me as we explore the uncharted territories of personal autonomy and fulfillment in defining success. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore how different cultures redefine success to broaden your perspective and inspire new ways of thinking about achievement. Uncover the pivotal role of networking in career transitions and discover how it can open doors to unexpected opportunities. Embrace the power of intrinsic motivation to fuel your journey towards success and find fulfillment in your endeavors. Discover the secrets to achieving a fulfilling work-life balance from the Scandinavian perspective and apply them to your own life. Unlock the potential of the digital nomad lifestyle and learn how it can revolutionize your approach to success and fulfillment. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Defining Success 00:02:04 - Mastering the Career Pivot 00:04:12 - Different Cultural Views on Success 00:10:30 - Research on Success and Well-being 00:13:32 - Redefining Success 00:14:38 - Redefining Success 00:15:02 - Living with Purpose 00:15:54 - Maya Angelou's Definition of Success 00:16:41 - Engaging with Others 00:17:35 - Gratitude and Support Success means living life according to my personal values, on my own terms and with the freedom to choose my own path while also making a difference in the world. - Lori Adams Brown Redefining Success through Cultural Exploration In exploring different cultural perspectives on success, the podcast delves into how success is defined and perceived across various global traditions. By examining contrasting views on success, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the diverse ways in which success can be interpreted and valued. This cultural exploration encourages individuals to broaden their perspectives and redefine success based on personal values and aspirations. Mastering the Career Pivot: This is a brand new masterclass designed to help you take control of your career pivot with confidence and land a job you actually love. To sign up, go to loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot. The Little Book of Danish Secrets to Happy Living by Make Wieking: This book delves into the Danish concept of hygge and offers insights into achieving happiness. It's a great resource for understanding the Danish approach to well-being. Simon Sinek's Work: Simon Sinek is known for his book Start with Why and his TED Talk on the same topic. His work focuses on understanding the purpose behind actions and decisions. You can find his TED Talk and books online or in bookstores. Patreon: Join the conversation at the A World of Difference community on Patreon. Visit patreon.com/aworldofdifference to engage in discussions about redefining success and making a difference. BetterHelp: If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or not yourself lately, consider seeking support from BetterHelp, an online therapy platform. As a listener of A World of Difference, you can get 10% off your first month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Jenny Booth Potter is a creative producer, storyteller, and co-host of The Next Question, a web series about expanding our imagination for racial justice. She has co-led racial justice trainings across the country for churches and organizations, and is a founding partner of HerSelf Media, an organization that aims to create stories that empower and bring joy to Black women. Jenny and her husband make their home outside of Chicago with their two boys and one wild puppy. Jenny’s book is Doing Nothing Is No Longer an Option: One Woman's Journey into Everyday Antiracism https://amzn.to/3EPkA0M Visit her website at jennyboothpotter.com. Follow her on Twitter: @JennyBPotter. Buy Jenny’s book from ivpress.com with code  AWORLD22 for 30 percent off ebook and hard copy with free shipping between 11/23/22 and 12/7/22 The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the unexpected link between workplace bullying and trauma healing. Uncover the surprising strategies to reclaim your voice and peace in the aftermath of workplace bullying. Learn how to set boundaries like a boss and build a strong support system. Dive into the unexpected world of evidence-based therapies that can help you heal from the mental and emotional effects of workplace bullying. This is more than just surviving – it's about reclaiming your confidence and joy. Find out how to take back your power and voice, and step into a future where your work and voice truly matter. Join us as we unravel the unexpected journey of healing from workplace bullying trauma. The fact that you're here, tuning in, leaning into these conversations, and doing the hard and beautiful work of making a difference in this world, it means everything to me. - Lori Adams-Brown In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering strategies to handle workplace bullying empowers you to take control of your work environment and well-being. Exploring the effects of bullying on mental health provides insight into how to protect and nurture your emotional wellness at work. Setting firm boundaries with workplace bullies creates a healthier and more respectful professional atmosphere for yourself and others. Healing from workplace bullying trauma offers the opportunity to regain confidence and find peace in your career. Building a support system against bullying equips you with a network of allies and resources to stand strong in the face of adversity. Empowerment through Handling Bullying In this episode, I delve into strategies for handling workplace bullying, empowering individuals to confront and address this challenging issue head-on. By providing insights and practical tips, listeners are equipped with the tools to assert themselves and stand up against workplace bullies. The goal is to empower individuals to reclaim their voice and power in the face of bullying. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot to sign up for the Mastering the Career Pivot masterclass for guidance on taking control of your career pivot with confidence and landing a job you love. The course includes video training, self-paced exercises, a career pivot guide, and a Pivot Guide package with detailed workbook and spreadsheets to track your job search, networking, and applications. Subscribe to the A World of Difference podcast, leave a review, and share the episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and continue having important conversations. Connect with Lori Adams-Brown on Instagram, the A World of Difference podcast website, Substack, or Bluesky for more discussions on workplace bullying and related experiences. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Welcome and Introduction 00:01:22 - Workplace Bullying Statistics 00:06:48 - Strategies for Handling Workplace Bullying 00:11:36 - Legal Intervention and Healing 00:14:15 - The Importance of Evidence-Based Therapies 00:15:31 - The Benefits of EMDR Therapy 00:17:32 - The Importance of Somatic Therapy 00:19:56 - The Power of Coaching and Support Groups 00:20:12 - Choosing Yourself and Moving Forward Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori’s Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Use code DIFFERENCEMAKERS for 10% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** Planning a Restorative Retreat in 2023? Jake Sasseville, CEO of Imiloa Institute, tells us about his restorative retreat center in Costa Rica. (Use PROMO CODE below for discount.) Jake was born in Lewiston, Maine, Jake's dad was a social worker, and his mother was a substitute teacher. When he was sixteen, he left Maine to travel abroad to France by himself to do a year abroad in high school. At seventeen, he learned early on about life’s private struggles: his thirteen-year brother died of leukemia and his father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the same year. As a result, Sasseville has been known to be a sensitive, steadfast and resilient entrepreneur and leader, often choosing pioneering paths instead of roads frequently traveled. Imiloa Sasseville is currently the CEO and Founder of Imiloa Institute in Costa Rica. Imiloa is described as a home and experience where human beings are invited to awaken their consciousness in service to themselves and the planet. The Institute hosts 50 retreats a year. Imiloa’s clients range from yoga teachers to the United Nations and the Beckley Foundation. In addition, the Institute also hosts a variety of retreats on topics from meditation to art, sexuality, epigenetics, and health. Sasseville and his team have transitioned to Imiloa with the goal of attracting hosts that provide an evidence-based or scientific-based approach to transformation. Besides enjoying an 86% re-booking rate and becoming profitable for the first time in its history fourteen months after Jake stepped in as CEO, Imiloa has become known for its leadership style -- the team is unified behind the philosophy of causing individual and social transformation of the planet by leading from a spirit of service and a posture of learning. Television and Entertainment Career Jake started his career in Maine as one of the youngest magicians admitted to the Society of American Magicians when he was just thirteen. He did hundreds of stage and close-up shows around the United States before graduating high school. At twenty-one, he created, executive produced, and hosted The Edge with Jake Sasseville, a late-night reality-talk show that debuted February 14, 2008, on ABC after Jimmy Kimmel Live! Jake was the youngest host in late-night TV history for the show he created, and one of the youngest heads of a production company ever. The show pioneered the reality-talk genre, creating a “show within a late-night talk show” and often beat its rival late-night shows in key markets, including Conan O’Brien and Craig Ferguson. Sasseville was known for his avant-garde approach to innovative business, fortifying public relationships with Ford, Overstock.com, Red Bull, Coca-Cola, P&G, Crocs, and many other brands who creatively funded his projects and accessed his growing “Gen Y” audience. From 2008-2010, Sasseville created the “Pringles Xtreme Campus Music Tour.” The music toured went to 30 of the largest universities yearly, featuring the next “it” acts in music, including Kanye West, One Republic, Fabulous, and J. Cole, among others. From 2010-2012 when he was twenty-five, Jake created and launched Late Night Republic, an innovative TV series on Fox and CW and one of the first “crowd-sourced” late-night TV shows. The show enjoyed a 102-week run. Sasseville developed, executive produced, and co-wrote Delusions of Grandeur for ABC Family. The sitcom, dealing on topics of mental illness and loosely based on Jake’s life, was too much for the Disney-owned network and they canceled the show before it aired its first episode. Delusions went on to be downloaded 2.5 million times on the online network Blip.tv (acquired by Maker Studios). He was honored by the White House and the Kauffman Foundation in 2012 as one of the most impactful startup entrepreneurs in the United States. Author His first book, Slightly Famous, chronicles Jake’s life from age twenty-one to twenty-five with his groundbreaking approach to content creation, audience building, TV syndication, and business acumen. He also writes candidly about his private struggles, spiritual curiosities and dysfunctional family life. After his house got washed away in Hurricane Sandy, Jake’s life and business took a reset. He retreated to Maine and spent two years (originally supposed to be one month) in Grandma’s Basement. He realized the way he was living life was untenable, often vying for success and ruining valuable relationships along the way. As a result, entered a tweleve-step program of recovery and went through what he now calls a “Dark Night of the Soul.” Podcast At twenty-nine, after two years in Maine and serving alongside the Baha’i Community in his hometown, finding purpose in surrender and taking action instead of hustling, he went on to create The Jake Sasseville Show, a podcast which he famously produced from a Dunkin Donuts parking lot “because grandma didn’t have internet.” After just twelve episodes, The Jake Sasseville Show grew to a listenership of 250,000 per month in the early days of podcasting. Known for his heartfelt and boisterous conversation-interview style, the show did theme-based shows with grandsons of revolutionaries (Nelson Mandela and Arun Ghandi), authors of best-selling books, Grammy- and Emmy-winning entertainers, and guests that would not normally talk on podcasts (Beyonce’s publicist, Yvette Noel-Schure, and the CEO of Overstock.com, Stormy Simon). Sasseville moved to Maui and rented out his cottage in his backyard on Airbnb, getting the idea of Imiloa Institute in the main home. As he’s said publicly, Airbnb was paying his living expenses. He used his main home to welcome “friends and friends of friends.” Sasseville went on to say that he realized that human beings want to feel at home in their transformation. “Rwandan genocide survivors came to write their book in my home, stage IV cancer patients would come to heal… everyone came to that Maui house.” In 2018, he and his former business partner (and former CEO of Imiloa) raised $3.5 million for the first Imiloa. The location was Costa Rica for what was envisioned as an “intercontinental institute for the education and advancement of humanity.” Although his two partners (CEO and COO) stepped down from the company during the pandemic, Jake stepped in as CEO (despite being happy as the company’s CMO) and drove the company to profitability in fourteen months. Imiloa was one of the only hospitality businesses not to shut down or furlough an employee during Covid. Sasseville lives in Costa Rica, where he enjoys friends, practicing Ashtanga yoga, working closely with Imiloa’s leadership team, traveling to sit in tea ceremonies with mentors and friends, and watching old TV shows from the 50s and 60s. imiloainstitute.com or jakesasseville.com Follow Jake online @jakesasseville And Attend any signature retreat at Imiloa, use promo code JAKE to get $200 off just for listening today! The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join host Lori Adams-Brown on A World of Difference as she sits down with Dr. Lynn Cohick, a New Testament professor and author of "A Second Edition Dictionary of Paul in His Letters." Lori discusses Dr. Cohick's journey as a professor, her love for scriptures, and her contribution to including more women's voices in the conversation around Paul and Paul's letters. Cohick shares about her writing and scholarship and how she has dug deep into understanding and representing what women were doing in the ancient church. They also discuss how women played a large role in the formation of Christian theology and liturgy. The discussion moves to the challenges women face in male-dominated industries such as biblical studies, theology, and academia and how they have to work twice as hard as men to be perceived at the same level. Cohick encourages women to take risks and not be afraid to fail. They then discuss the importance of acknowledging gender stereotypes and biases and the need to break free from them. The podcast ends with a sneak peek of a Patreon-exclusive interview where Cohick shares about her experience in times of suffering. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode of A World of Difference with host Lori Adams-Brown and guest Dr. Lynn Cohick. https://lynncohick.com/ Lynn H. Cohick (Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania) is a Professor of NT. She served as Provost at both Northern Seminary and Denver Seminary. She taught NT for over 15 years at Wheaton College. Her books include The Letter to the Ephesians in the NICNT; Christian Women in the Patristic World: Their Influence, Authority, and Legacy in the Second through the Fifth Centuries (co-authored with Amy Brown Hughes; Philippians in the Story of God Commentary; Ephesians in New Covenant Commentary; Women in the World of the Earliest Christians. [00:00:02] Introduction of Dr. Lynn Cohick's new book [00:03:53] Women's History in Early Christianity [00:07:56] Women's Role in Church History [00:12:22] Independent Women in Ancient World [00:16:38] Interpretation in Diverse Communities [00:21:28] Challenges faced by women in male-dominated spaces [00:26:11] Overcoming Patriarchal Norms in Women's Careers [00:30:09] Challenging Gender Biases in Education and Careers [00:34:06] Challenging Paul's Views on Women in Scriptures [00:38:26] Interpretation of 1 Timothy 2 [00:42:39] Biblical verse on women's salvation and cultural context [00:46:18] Farewell to Dr. Cohick and acknowledgement of difficult situation [00:49:43] Exclusive Interview with Dr. Cohick on Spiritual Practices Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. ********** The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Join us to discuss this episode, previous episodes or for other thoughtful conversations at our Facebook group. We'd love to have you stop by and share your perspective. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.comLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Become a patron of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon. Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to know how filmmaker Patrick Thies is creating impactful storytelling and making a difference through his work? Stay tuned as we dive into his inspiring journey and the unique perspectives he brings to the world of film. Get ready to be inspired by his dedication and passion for diverse and meaningful storytelling. In this episode, you will be able to: Navigating the New Normal: Launching Your Filmmaking Career Post-Covid. Navigating the New Normal: Launching Your Filmmaking Career Post-Covid. Discovering the Intriguing Impact of International Adoption on Identity Formation. Tackling the Fentanyl Crisis: Unveiling the Potential of Film as a Catalyst for Change. Unleashing Success: Mastering Strategies for Independent Filmmaking Triumph. My special guest is Patrick Thies Patrick Thies is a filmmaker, screenwriter, and film director based in North Hollywood, California. His professional expertise encompasses cinematography, video production, and drone operation. Patrick's recent focus on addressing the fentanyl crisis through film reflects his commitment to using visual storytelling as a tool for social impact. As an adoptee from Lima, Peru, Patrick's personal background adds a distinct and authentic dimension to his creative work. With a strong emphasis on leveraging advanced technology and a dedication to diverse and impactful narratives, Patrick brings a unique and valuable perspective to the filmmaking industry. "It's important to see that because that's what our world is. We're very diverse. Everyone is here. It should never just be one mold." - Patrick Thies The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:00:50 - Sponsorship by Betterhelp 00:01:40 - Introduction of Patrick Thies 00:02:32 - Conversations about California Weather 00:07:52 - Impact of Adoption on Filmmaking 00:13:07 - Dreaming of Machu Picchu 00:15:25 - Identity and Family Dynamics 00:17:02 - Racial Identity in South America 00:18:34 - Small Town Upbringing 00:20:23 - Challenges and Opportunities in Filmmaking 00:25:27 - The Cost of Creativity in the Film Industry 00:27:39 - Addressing the Fentanyl Crisis Through Film 00:29:01 - Humanizing Addicts and Addressing Community Apathy 00:32:39 - The Power of Film in Creating Empathy and Driving Change 00:35:25 - Importance of Diversity and Representation in Film 00:37:47 - Finding Empathy for the Villain 00:38:11 - Monsters Are Real 00:39:27 - Diversity on Screen and Behind the Scenes 00:41:29 - Overcoming Challenges and Finding Support 00:44:23 - Using Film to Create Awareness and Impact https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/ https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod https://www.youtube.com/@aworldofdifference https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Fortescue, a transformative coach using the Internal Family Systems approach, ignites the path to emotional and spiritual healing by fearlessly embracing the complexities within, prioritizing self-love, and challenging societal norms, all while navigating the compelling conflict between personal growth and society's demand for selflessness. ”I've got to love myself. I've got to prioritize myself. If I don't do that, I can't love God and others, and there's no joy.” - Tim Fortescue In this episode, you will be able to: Immerse yourself in the promising philosophy of emotional and spiritual healing via the Internal Family Systems (IFS). Bring to light the significance of honesty and protection in tackling feelings of shame. Celebrate your unique self, embracing the process of self-acceptance and recognizing your worth. Grasp the compelling concept of self-love and its direct correlation with emotional wellness. Embrace the pattern of viewing your emotions and complexities with a lens of curiosity, devoid of any judgment. My special guest is Tim Fortescue Dr. Tim Fortescue is a seasoned emotional coach with a notable emphasis on spiritual healing. His journey started in South Carolina and took him to working closely with Afghan refugees in the Bay Area for nearly two decades. This rich cross-cultural experience, paired with his doctorate in leadership, drove him into becoming a board-certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) coach. Through IFS, Tim combines the emotional and spiritual aspects of well-being to help individuals become more compassionate and self-aware in their paths towards personal growth. ”There are ways that I can speak in this conversation that can bring about change. There's ways I can shut up and listen, but I need to recognize I've got those parts I'm very ashamed of.” - Tim Fortescue The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit the Ifs Institute website to learn more about the internal family systems (Ifs) coaching system mentioned in the podcast: https://www.ifs-institute.com/ Consider exploring Ifs coaching as a tool for emotional healing and personal growth. Look for certified Ifs coaches in your area or online. Check out the podcast lineup on the A World of Difference podcast to listen to Becky Castle Miller, an Ifs coach, who will be sharing more about the Ifs system and its benefits. Reflect on your own experiences of religious trauma and consider seeking support or therapy to address any unresolved issues. Ifs coaching may be a helpful approach to explore in this process. Take the time to prioritize self-care and self-compassion in your life. Recognize the importance of loving yourself and prioritize your own well-being alongside your commitments to others and your faith. If you are interested in learning more about the work Tim Fortescue has done with Afghan refugees, reach out to him or explore resources on Afghan refugee support organizations in your area. Consider the impact of religious trauma on your own life and explore ways to heal and find joy in your faith. Connect with supportive communities or seek guidance ”It's okay to point in and see the faces inside of us so that we can accept these parts that I'm talking about, and then to see in compassion for ourselves and for others.” - Tim Fortescue Become a member of this podcast, and enjoy free merch. Join other club members of the Difference Makers community of this podcast at Patreon. The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen. Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram A World of Difference on Facebook, Linktree,on Twitter at @loriadbr or loriadamsbrown.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating. Click here to review Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lori-adams-brown/supportMentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode explores the reasons behind making a podcast about making a difference in the world and celebrating our differences to the extent that we truly listen and learn from each others’ perspectives. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. RATE and REVIEW the show on iTunes.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook. --- Mentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pastor Yasmin Roohi pastors Centerset church along with her husband Pastor Ali Roohi in the Silicon Valley.  They planted Centerset church together, birthed out of a dream and a calling that they shared since they were dating.  Yasmin is an Iranian-American who grew up in Italy.  She cares deeply about justice, and longs to make a difference in the lives of those who are oppressed and treated unjustly.  She and her husband are raising 2 girls ages 4 and 2, and she strives to make the world a better place for her girls to grow up in.  She gives us her perspective on what it must have been like for a young Middle Eastern woman named Mary to say "yes" to the monumental task of carrying, birthing and raising the Messiah. https://centerset.church Books Yasmin recommends: Why Not Women? https://cbeinternational.christianbook.com/not-women-scripture-missions-ministry-leadership/loren-cunningham/9781576581834/pd/581837?event=ESRCG Just Lead https://www.amazon.com/Just-Lead-Complaining-Nonsense-Practical/dp/1118314395 Developing Female Leaders by Kadi Cole https://www.developingfemaleleadersbook.com Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen. Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lori-adams-brown/supportMentioned in this episode: Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Christopher Adams talks about growing up bicultural and how this drew him to learn about the immigrant experience. This ultimately led him to pursue a degree in which he could learn to both understand and help those having a challenging time in the US education system, especially on the US border with Mexico. Dr. Adams talks about teaching students with trauma, mental health struggles, and how his music he plays for the homeless community gives him connection. Listen and be inspired, challenged and equipped by Dr. Adams as he shares and leads with vulnerability. He spends so much time listening to those he encounters. Here’s our chance to listen to what he has learned, and how we too can make a world of difference as teachers, social justice workers, and human beings. Look for his music with his band C.M. & the Revelators on Spotify. https://open.spotify.com/artist/4nPlCn1ih5Hv7RlW6PQtBl?si=p76q2yFqSOWuNzatkX0c-g. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. RATE and REVIEW the show on iTunes.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lori-adams-brown/supportMentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Freida Adams speaks of her life and career from growing up the only child of a single mom after her beloved father passed away from cancer to becoming. a Registered Nurse. She speaks of life in Costa Rica, Venezuela, and Thailand. She reminisces about the years of starting a clinic in Venezuela, and how Venezuelan friends embraced her as family. She speaks of her years as Director of the Office of Border Health in New Mexico where she coordinated international efforts to address needs on the US-Mexico border. She speaks about finding like-minded friends in government in both the US and Mexican governments, and how she is still coordinating volunteers to care for immigrants and those with food insecurities during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. RATE and REVIEW the show on iTunes.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lori-adams-brown/supportMentioned in this episode: Do you want to go deeper? Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us! Patreon Join Difference Makers Join us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference. Patreon This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices