The Leader’s Way

Adrian Dannhauser, Rector of Church of the Incarnation in NYC and author, dives into the depths of spiritual practice and evangelism. He shares insights from his transformation from Southern Baptist roots to embracing inclusivity in the Episcopal Church. The discussion covers the significance of silent retreats and the courage required to pray for others. Adrian emphasizes the healing power of community and love in worship, along with practical tips for navigating challenges in spiritual ministry, all while showcasing his authentic self through playful anecdotes.

What do church mission, governance, and high school theater have in common? Brandon and Hannah talk with The Rev’d Molly James, PhD., Interim Executive Officer at The Episcopal Church and Berkeley Divinity at Yale alum (’05), about the ways Church mission and institutional governance weave together to strengthen the work of The Episcopal Church. Listen as Rev’d Molly recounts lessons on leadership gleaned from her high school stage manager days and reminds us how real transformation only happens when we work together.   Hosts: Brandon Nappi, Whitney Kimball Coe, and Misty Krasawski Guest: Hannah Black Production: Goodchild Media Music: Wayfaring Stranger, Theodicy Jazz Collective Art: E. Landino   Instagram: @theleadersway.podcast berkeleydivinity.yale.edu/podcast   You can support our work at https://tinyurl.com/support-transforming-leaders

In this episode, Brandon talks with New York Times bestselling author, public theologian, preacher, and founder of Sojourners, The Rev’d Jim Wallis. Their conversation explores the theological implications of authoritarianism, new frames for understanding church unity, and the difference between optimism and hope. Host: Brandon Nappi Guest: Jim Wallis Production: Goodchild Media Music: Wayfaring Stranger, Theodicy Jazz Collective Art: E. Landino Instagram: @theleadersway.podcast berkeleydivinity.yale.edu/podcast You can support our work at https://tinyurl.com/support-transforming-leaders

Futurist and Berkeley Divinity at Yale alum Rachel Hatch (‘08) joins Brandon and Hannah for a conversation about how to look for signals of change within our own parishes and communities as we make thoughtful choices for the future. In this episode, Rachel encourages leaders to cultivate a practice of imagining possibilities and taking steps toward hope-filled futures, while still addressing the urgencies of the present.

Hannah has news, and you have new friends! Tune in to meet guest hosts Whitney and Misty as they join Brandon in interviewing Hannah for our season finale. Why is Gregory of Nyssa’s take on salvation so different from what Hannah heard in church growing up? Are there risks in the regular ways we talk about Christian salvation? How did feminist theology help her untangle all of this? How much can we know or talk about God? And why is wonder, an antidote to certainty, so important? Listen to find out. Hosts: Brandon Nappi, Whitney Kimball Coe, and Misty Krasawski Guest: Hannah Black Production: Goodchild Media Music: Wayfaring Stranger, Theodicy Jazz Collective Art: E. Landino Instagram: @theleadersway.podcast berkeleydivinity.yale.edu/podcast You can support our work at https://tinyurl.com/support-transforming-leaders

Jeffrey Mello, the 16th Bishop Diocesan of the Episcopal Church in Connecticut, shares his unique blend of social work and ministry. He discusses how a posture of curiosity and the acceptance of failure are essential to effective leadership. The conversation delves into the challenges and benefits of integrating pop culture into spiritual practices, as well as the importance of community dynamics in fostering personal and collective growth. The lighthearted segment at the end reveals his playful side through a rapid-fire question round, making for an entertaining conclusion.

Linn Tonstad, a Professor of Theology, Religion, and Sexuality at Yale Divinity School, joins the hosts to dive into the transformative potential of queer theology. She discusses how this perspective challenges conventional beliefs about gender and sexuality, promoting social change and reduced violence. The conversation touches on the evolution of 'coming out' and the intimate relationships within queer narratives. With personal anecdotes and reflections on identity, Tonstad urges listeners to celebrate diversity and foster joy within communities.

Andrew McGowan, Dean and President of Berkeley Divinity School at Yale, shares his insights on the changing dynamics of the church and its future. He discusses the parallels between Australian secularization and trends in the U.S., including a decline in church attendance. McGowan highlights the nuanced difference between hope and optimism and critiques consumer capitalism's impact on faith communities. The conversation also touches on the importance of genuine community engagement and the evolving nature of the Eucharist, culminating in a lighthearted debate about the best bread for the sacrament.

THE Father Lizzie is back on The Leader's Way podcast, talking about her new devotional God Didn't Make Us to Hate Us. We talk about the alternative to "billboard Christianity" and how an expansive, inclusive God affects individual spirituality and corporate worship in church. Finally, the Golden Retriever Games are back, baby. Stay 'till the end for "Holy or Horror?" https://bookshop.org/contributors/lizzie-mcmanus-dail Hosts: Brandon Nappi and Hannah Black Guest: Lizzie McManus-Dail Production: Goodchild Media Music: Wayfaring Stranger, Theodicy Jazz Collective Art: E. Landino Instagram: @theleadersway.podcast berkeleydivinity.yale.edu/podcast You can support our work at https://tinyurl.com/support-transforming-leaders

Teresa Morgan, a Yale Divinity School Professor, specializes in the history of ideas and early Christianity. In this engaging conversation, she unpacks the Greek word 'pistis,' revealing its profound meanings surrounding trust and faith. Morgan critiques traditional views of atonement theology, highlighting the importance of genuine relationships in both ancient and modern contexts. The discussion also links trust to personal identity and emphasizes the need for cultivating authentic connections in faith practices today.