The Ignite Institute : CHANGE HAPPENS NOW!

In this deeply moving Season 7 finale episode, we honor the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Dorsey Odell Blake, beloved faculty member, mentor, tireless advocate for justice, and prophetic voice in the Pacific School of Religion (PSR) community and beyond, who passed away in March 2025. Dr. Blake first came to PSR in 1968, during a time of national upheaval that he often compared to our own. Inspired by personal encounters with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other Civil Rights leaders, he pursued a theological education rooted in justice, compassion, and community. After graduating in 1971, he remained deeply connected to PSR, through transformative teaching that spanned more than five decades, serving as Professor of Leadership and Social Transformation at Pacific School of Religion (PSR) as well as Dean of the Faculty at Starr King School for Ministry and pastor at The Church for the Fellowship of All Peoples, founded by his mentor, Dr. Howard Thurman. We celebrate his lasting impact through the voices of community members who share personal reflections and memories of Dr. Blake, exploring the divine synchronicity that brought him into their lives and the profound impact he had on theological education and social justice movements. The episode closes with a powerful question to each guest: What action will you take in the world because of Dr. Blake's friendship, ministry, and justice work? Their answers reflect the enduring call to carry forward his legacy, one rooted in love, integrity, and fierce commitment to justice.Featured Voices:Rev. Dr. David Vásquez-Levy – President of PSR, shares how Dr. Blake became a mentor and colleague who shaped the vision of theological education through both word and action, including the anonymous co-creation of a visionary pamphlet on communal learning.Rev. Janet Wolf – Reflects on her partnership with Dr. Blake in the Freedom Seminary and his commitment to children-centered theology and nonviolent social change through the National Council of Elders.Dr. Leonard McMahon – Honors Dr. Blake's unwavering encouragement of students, his courageous vulnerability, and his mentorship during doctoral studies.Dr. Jim Lawrence – Speaks to Dr. Blake's embodiment of the spiritual legacy of Howard Thurman and his powerful preaching ministry that bridged intellect and soul.Rev. Elena Rose Vera – Shares her experience as a student and spiritual daughter of Dr. Blake, lifting up his humility, deep integrity, and transformative support during her journey as a trans woman of color in ministry.In Loving Memory:Rev. Dr. Dorsey Odell Blake1946 – 2025"Well done, good and faithful servant."To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

In this inspiring episode, we continue our exploration of Kwaray's development by welcoming a dynamic and deeply knowledgeable voice: Tiffany Bluhm, Executive Director of PAX—an organization dedicated to mentoring and vocational development for emerging Christians of color—and a contributor to Kwaray. With over 16 years in ministry and nonprofit leadership, Tiffany's insights blend practical wisdom, historical context, and a profound appreciation for cultural identity's role in spiritual growth. In this conversation, she highlights the critical need for mentorship within Christian communities of color, illustrating how this historically underserved population often lacks the guidance necessary to develop robust leadership pipelines. We hear how cultural identity is not a hindrance but a divine gift, and that embracing heritage dismantles internalized narratives of deficiency, allowing leaders of color to confidently step into their callings. Contemplative activism becomes central to Tiffany's vision, as she explains that sustained engagement in community work and leadership development is grounded in practices of peace, justice, and spiritual rootedness. Tiffany's own scholarship, as reflected in her sixth book, The Women We've Been Waiting For, provides new lenses through which to view scriptural and historical narratives, re-centering women of color as essential contributors rather than marginal figures. The result is a dynamic, collective vision where empowered leaders integrate their cultural identities, spiritual practices, and communal learning to transform faith communities from within. Join us as we learn from Tiffany Bloom's deep well of experience and passion, and discover how a multi-layered approach to mentorship, identity, and faith can shape a future where everyone's story is honored and every leader is equipped to thrive. This episode offers valuable insight for anyone seeking mentorship, resources, and empowerment to step fully into their cultural and spiritual identity and build inclusive communities that flourish.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

In this episode, we sat down with Jonathon Murillo, our Director of Content and Strategy at Ignite Institute at PSR. Jonathon introduces the concept of a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) world and the need for a new way to lead, which led to the development of Ignite's hallmark program, Wisdom-Based Leadership. He shares how this leadership framework goes beyond traditional corporate tools and methods, and integrates personal formation and skill development, with its competencies of creative communication, courageous collaboration, and contemplative care. We hear about the positive changes observed in leaders trained in wisdom-based leadership and the importance of honoring marginalized experiences and spiritual traditions. He also highlights the need for a platform to continue equipping and supporting rising faith leaders in these areas, and how Kwaray meets that need, providing a global, digital room for collective wisdom and continuous formation and skill development, where leaders can find affirmation and support. This episode provides inspiration and a direct path for leaders looking for a community where the collective wisdom of its members can emerge and support each other's growth.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

In this episode, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Cindy Liu, a visionary strategist dedicated to redefining the future of education through Kwaray, a groundbreaking community-based learning platform. Cindy takes us on her journey, sharing insights on why fostering a sense of community is essential for transformative education and personal growth and how Kwaray's unique model is setting itself apart from traditional learning environments, offering a space for rising faith leaders leaders to not only gain knowledge but to actively build community, nurture spiritual growth, and drive social impact. She provides a thoughtful analysis of the current cultural climate, discussing how Kwaray equips faith leaders and changemakers to tackle division and foster unity within their communities. Whether you're a leader, educator, or someone passionate about personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights into how education can go beyond traditional learning, integrating spirituality, purpose, and community.  Join us for a conversation that explores the intersection of faith, learning, and social impact, and discover how you can play a role in shaping a more just and connected world.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Rev. Dr. David Vásquez-Levy, President of Pacific School of Religion, discusses the origin story of Kwaray, a new community-based learning platform dedicated to equipping rising faith leaders as they navigate an era of profound spiritual and cultural upheaval. Kwaray aims to address the pressing needs of accessible theological education and challenge the notion of excellence by exclusion in higher education. It seeks to create an inclusive space for learning and engaging questions of meaning, society, and spirituality and is built on a distributed network that allows for diverse voices and perspectives to contribute and learn together. This episode offers valuable insights on a direct and accessible pathway toward more transformational education, one place to find your community, to discover your purpose, and take action!To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

As the first female principals at Bora Architecture, Amy Donohoe and Jeanie Lai champion justice-oriented design, making educational spaces innovative, inclusive, and inspirational. They sat down with us to talk about their personal and professional journeys and the importance of design justice, equity, and community engagement in architecture. We hear about the challenges of a male-dominated industry, the historical lack of diversity in architecture, the importance of recognizing and addressing biases in design, and creating inclusive spaces that prioritize the needs of both staff and clients. They highlight the transformative power of critical race theory in shaping their design process and creating more inclusive spaces as well as the challenges of letting go of control as designers. We also hear examples of projects that have pushed the boundaries of traditional architecture and involved the community in decision-making. This episode offers inspiration on centering community members' experiences to create spaces that promote collaboration, engagement, and interconnectedness. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

In this inspiring episode, we welcome Rev. Dr. Brenda Salter McNeil, a pastor, dynamic speaker, award-winning author, professor, and thought leader. Dr. Salter McNeil is recognized internationally as one of the foremost leaders of reconciliation and was featured as one of the 50 most influential women to watch by Christianity Today in 2012. A trailblazer with a loving and prophetic approach, her mission is to inspire and empower emerging Christian leaders to practice reconciliation in their communities. She talks with us about the crucial need for bravery and action in the pursuit of justice, the pivotal role young people play in advocating for change, and the church's responsibility to commit to reconciliation through concrete actions. We learn about her faith journey and gain valuable insights on decolonizing our minds. She underscores the need for building diverse coalitions, practicing self-care, and finding supportive communities to sustain this work. Additionally, she talks about her experiences at Quest Church, where every member is valued and contributes to the community's journey towards affirming the image of God in all human beings. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of reconciliation, and discover how you can contribute to this vital work in your own sphere of influence.Dr. Salter McNeil serves as an Associate Professor of Reconciliation Studies at the School of Theology, Seattle Pacific University, where she directs the Reconciliation Studies program. She is the author of the newly released book, Empowered to Repair: Becoming People Who Mend Broken Systems and Heal Our Communities, as well as Becoming Brave: Finding the Courage to Pursue Racial Justice Now, Roadmap to Reconciliation, Roadmap to Reconciliation 2.0, and A Credible Witness. She is also the coauthor of The Heart of Racial Justice.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

In this conversation, we sat down with Lauren Snelling and Dori King to discuss their experiences as parents and educators and the importance of storytelling in their respective fields. Lauren is child trauma psychotherapist/counselor, committed to disrupting systems in an effort to support Black children, and Dori is a children's picture book writer, educator, and mindfulness practitioner. We learn about their experiences in creating spaces for Black children to explore their identities, the challenges they face in predominantly white institutions, and the need for agency and leadership among young people. They also touch on the joys and challenges of raising their own Black boys and how it informs their work. The importance of self-care and finding sustainable practices to thrive in the education system is also shared. This episode highlights the power of community, the importance of self-reflection, and the need for representation and affirmation for Black children. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Join us in this enlightening episode as our host, Mo King, delves into the intricate landscape of Christian ethics with esteemed scholars Dr. Traci West  and Dr. Lisa Asedillo. Dr. West is an author and Professor of Christian Ethics and African American Studies at Drew University Theological School. She offers profound insights into gender-based violence, intertwining race and religion, and the pivotal role of hope in facing global crises. Dr. Lisa Asedillo is an ethicist, liturgist, and currently serves as Assistant Professor of Worship and Ethics at Pacific School of Religion. She shares her passion for nurturing spiritually rooted leaders at PSR, emphasizing the importance of teaching methods and facilitating deep conversations in the classroom. Together, they explore critical topics such as religion, activism, ethics, and community leadership. We hear about the value of creativity and spirituality in navigating challenges, the need for solidarity and mutuality in liberation movements, and the importance of centering anti-racist perspectives in theology and ethics, Tune in as these scholars explore how faith transforms into tangible action and illuminates the path towards ethical living and social justice in today's world. This episode offers faith leaders perspectives that inspire hope and ignite change.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On our Season premiere, host Mo King sits down with spiritual leaders Rev. Adriene Thorne, Senior Minister of the historic Riverside Church in NYC, and Rev. Dr. David Vásquez-Levy, President of Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, CA, as they delve into their experiences leading dynamic communities, their challenges, and the resources they use to overcome them. From navigating vulnerability in religious spaces to forging interfaith collaborations, they explore the topics of identity, spirituality, and ministry, offering insights on leadership, prophetic voice, and inclusivity. While reflecting on their shared connection through PSR and how it informs their approaches to leadership, they highlight the importance of faith, trust, strategic planning, and community meaning-making. We also hear about the importance of resisting fear in various contexts and the role of artists and creatives in helping people see a future that isn't here yet, but is coming. This episode provides valuable resources for leaders navigating the complexities of modern religious landscapes.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

In a global culture that has perpetuated sexual violence, and a recent shift to more people talking about it than ever before, how can we as leaders truly be in community with survivors of this kind of abuse? In our Season Finale, we sat down with Lydia Matioli, Program & Partnerships Director of Freely in Hope in Kenya and Zambia, to talk about her own story and how this shift in mindset is helping her be more expansive in her vision, in terms of advocacy.  Born and raised in Kibera, East Africa's largest slum, Lydia has experienced the effects of sexual violence, lack of education, and poverty firsthand. Now, at Freely in Hope, she coordinates, designs, and implements programs that exemplify best practices on ending the cycle of sexual violence. She shares with our community how listening to survivors' stories and telling their stories in a dignified way, helps them to shift the blame from them to their perpetrators and begin the healing process. We learn specific pathways to take, so that we can all become active survivor advocates as well as how therapy, contemplative practices, and having an attitude of gratitude can keep leaders in this work grounded and nourished.   Lydia also talks about teaching children the importance of preventing sexual abuse through bodily autonomy, speaking up, consent, and safe touch.After giving birth to her daughter, Lydia  wanted to ensure her daughter grew up in a world that was safe. As a survivor of child sexual assault, Lydia was terrified that her daughter could be vulnerable to the same harm she experienced. As a child-protection advocate, Lydia wanted to educate children to be aware of what abuse looks like, and to empower parents to build trust and establish safety measures with their children. This vision birthed Pendo's Power, her first children's book! Through the launch of Pendo's Power, Lydia hopes that children around the world will discover the power of their voices and utilize it to call out sexual abuse and build a safer world for generations to come. Pick up Lydia's book here: https://buy.pendospower.com/*This episode contains mature content.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Co-designing is an ancient practice, and the world is experiencing a paradigm shift from designing for people to designing with people. We sat down with Dave Dawkins, communication design lead at IDEO.org, to talk about this change and the importance of summoning radical imagination in this time. For so many on the margins, it's an act of resistance to dream. Dave shares the importance of looking to ancestral knowledge for solutions to all the bad we see unfolding around us and supporting communities most impacted by the system by ensuring their valuable generative ideas are making it to the table. It's about activating the spiritual discipline of building wonder! We also hear about Dave's life, work, faith crisis and how failure can be a good thing that leads to the future seeds of something else growing! Wielding beauty for justice and belonging, Dave offers inspiration to our community with the application of human-centered design through an equity lens to address systemic challenges!  Checkout Dave's open letter to fellow creatives: HERETo get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

With everything happening in the world today in politics, cancel culture, and extreme barriers of division, Leland Melvin is helping to transform these ills by using his life story as an athlete, astronaut, scientist, engineer, photographer, and musician, to help inspire the next generation of explorers to pursue S.T.E.A.M. careers. Leland is the only person drafted into the NFL to have flown in space, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame honored his athletic and academic accomplishments by placing his Detroit Lions jersey under glass in Canton, Ohio. Through these professional experiences working on high stakes teams, he's developed a deep and nuanced understanding of effective team dynamics. In this episode, we hear an astronaut's story of the challenges he's accepted, the opportunities he's seized, and the changes he's seeing. Leland talks with us about the power of the blue suit, activating community, breaking bread, and what is possible when you knock down the barriers of division. He also shares why as leaders and people, we all need that  one person who is there for you no matter what and who has your back. "Being with a community that believes in things that are bigger than your individual self, when you work together as a team, is transformative!" - Leland Melvin*This episode contains mature content.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

How do we support the writers, artists, and thinkers in our communities in times of profound change? Andrew Proctor, Executive Director of Literary Arts in Portland Oregon, sat down with us to answer this question and shared how he's engaged the literary world for over twenty years in the governmental, for profit, and nonprofit sectors. Andrew also talks with us about the beauty of art as a medium to process what's going on in the world, the importance of modeling rest for your community, and what career resilience and growth really looks like. He also shared an incredibly impactful musical composition from  Gabriel Kahane that's inspired us immensely! “Everything doesn't have to run on fumes because running your career or self on fumes makes you extremely vulnerable. It can seem heroic, but it is what endangers you the most.” Andrew earned a bachelor's degree in English and Music at Concordia University in Montreal, and later worked in London for the Cultural Attaché to the Canadian High Commission. In the UK, he also earned an MA in English Literature at the University of East. He's worked as an editor for HarperCollins in New York City and then as the Membership and Operations Director of the PEN American Center, a global literary and human rights organization focused on the welfare of writers and editors.  To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

How can Christian teachings, sacred text, and prophetic witness be brought to the issues calling for Love and Justice in our world today? Master educator, Rev. Tana Roseboro Marsh, Program Coordinator of Theological Education for Leadership (TEL) at PSR, sits down with us to answer that question through the lens of the TEL program. While actively working on issues concerning the LGBTQIA community and disadvantaged youth, Tana is also passionate about doing work in the area of Spirituality and Women of Southern African American descent. She talks with us about her leadership journey, 'Healing the WOMBman', letting spirit guide us, and the gifts in having spiritual children. This episode offers inspiration for clergy, laity, and spiritual seekers from diverse racial/ethnic communities to question everything on their educational and leadership journeys, for the betterment of All!To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

How can we "sit on the porch" to help others slowly unfold what's on their hearts and minds? How can we be findable for intergenerational conversations? On this episode, Mo sits down with Phyllis Drennon King Hildreth, VP of Strategy and Chief of Staff at American Baptist College in Nashville, Tennessee, small business owner, community and civic leader, wife, mother, and his beloved sister, to answer these questions more. She talks with us about why it's critical to have close relationships across the generational scale and about Sankofa, the Ghanaian word that means "to go back and get" that which is at risk of being left behind. We also hear why in leadership it's not just about being available, but about being found, like the elders on the porch.  This episode is an invitation for leaders to go “visit their own soul, open the windows, roll up the shades, and invite somebody else in to turn on the music and to play in that space!” Phyllis' rich insights spring from service as Chief Counsel in the Office of the Public Defender for the State of Maryland, as Deputy Secretary for the State of Maryland Department of Juvenile Justice, and as Managing Director for the Baltimore City Juvenile Justice Center. She earned a bachelor's degree from Harvard University, a law degree from the University of Maryland, and a master's degree in conflict management from Lipscomb University.   To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

What we consume, whether it's the movies that we watch, the books we read, or the short social media videos we scroll through, it all feeds our minds and souls and informs our sense of reality at a very subliminal level. To Payhuan Shiao, Founder and CEO of Immortal Studios, and lineage holder of the 1000-year-old martial arts fantasy genre of Wuxia, content creation is the artform of providing nutrition for the mind and soul. Payhuan talks with us about awakening the xia (Hero) in us all, the changes he's seeing in the current landscape of global popular culture, and how storytelling is a powerful catalyst to bring optimism and a hope for a better future that's grounded in the improvement of our internal spiritual and physical condition. Born in the East and raised in the West, navigating both worlds, Payhuan explores the spiritual connection between the two, challenges the notion there's a deep divide, and shares that there's more connectivity than separation. Payhuan's presence in the film and entertainment industry highlights the importance of Asian representation in these spaces,  and this episode challenges leaders to think about the evolved perspectives it takes to bring people closer together. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Former 76ers athletic trainer and author of the Red Rubber Ball series of books, Kevin Carroll, has turned his childhood passion for playing ball into a bestselling franchise. Since leaving Nike to create his own company, Katalyst, Kevin has dedicated his life to advancing sports and play as a vehicle for social change and success. As an expert on creativity and innovation, and drawing wisdom from the playgrounds of his youth, Kevin's books center the "red rubber ball" as a metaphor for the power of play and the driving force that propels us forward, to achieve our maximum human potential. He talks with us about the most important moments in his childhood, the power of perseverance, reverse mentoring, and staying in beta as a human being, constantly updating and continuously improving! We hear about the beauty in analog making a return and the importance of becoming a CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) for others in our communities. This episode offers leaders, makers, doers, and dreamers inspiration and tools for sustenance in our life's work.  “We are the greatest app ever created. There is no app on a device or computer that is more powerful and amazing than us.” - Kevin Carroll Follow Kevin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kckatalyst/To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode, Mo King is joined by Dr. Jennifer Madden, the Dean of the School of Business at Linfield University in McMinnville, Oregon and the Author of Inter-Organizational Collaboration by Design that examines how collaborations can be designed and leveraged for innovation and rejuvenation, a concept she calls “Rejuvenative Innovation.” As a strategist, researcher, teacher, facilitator, and design thinker, Dr. Madden builds capacity for sustainable development. She talks about the power of the mind and creating a way out of no way. We find encouragement in what she shares about the importance of protecting your joy, not letting people talk you out of your power, and amplifying one's ability to be in the spaces where you can be ready for the opportunity. This episode offers inspiration to all people to see themselves as designers, to adopt a new language, in order to see the world differently and visualize a way forward.Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On our Season 6 Premiere, new Host, Mo King, talks with award-winning writer, editor, and heart centered nonprofit/social enterprise professional, Dorcas Cheng-Tozun.  Dorcas is the editorial director at Pax, a faith-based nonprofit that seeks to inspire people to be peacemakers and justice-seekers, and is the author of three books, the most recent being Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul, releasing on June 20th. In this captivating conversation, we hear about her passions, the theory of contemplative activism, and how she is changing the world in quiet ways. This episode illustrates pathways for positive social impact for sensitive types and inspires us all to broaden the categories of what we define as social activism. Follow Dorcas at chengtozun.com or on Instagram.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Belonging is a need essential to the human experience, and with the ongoing complex issues we're all navigating, the question of what “belonging” means in society is extending into our work as it never has before.  Grace So is Visiting Assistant Professor of New Testament and Rhetorical Studies at The Pacific School of Religion, and she has been wrestling with connecting and belonging throughout her entire life. On this episode, we talk about her journey moving back and forth between Korea + the US, how she's often been left to feel she's not Korean or American "enough," and how that has affected her finding a place and space. Grace shares touching examples of the difference just one person can make in providing a sense of belonging, and where she's recently discovered it. She beautifully illustrates the importance of finding a place to "belong" and offers our community inspiration in making others feel more than welcome, so we can be empowered to lead well and come into our full potential.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode we sat down with Leonard McMahon, doctoral candidate in theology at the Graduate Theological Union at UC Berkeley and Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care at the Pacific School of Religion. Leonard works through his consultancy, Common Ground Dialogue, to bring divergent citizens into deeper conversation for the sake of our democracy, and is deeply invested in political theology, spirituality, and pastoral care as integral components to forming leaders. In our conversation, Leonard talks about how our spiritual beliefs are deeply intertwined with our politics and how that has impacted his own leadership style. He shares two pivotal experiences in his life that have shaped much of his worldview and identity formation, and encourages others to find healing in their own experiences so they can live in their full truth. His unique faith background has kept him feeling energized over the years in his pursuit of social justice, leaving us with a different perspective to consider on our own spiritual and leadership journeys.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

"How much would the world change if our leaders focused on community care first?" That's what Stephenie Wheeler-Smith's focus is in her social enterprise, We Deliver Care, that seeks to reimagine public safety in Seattle and widen the circle of human concern. As we sat down with Stephenie to hear more about her leadership approach, we learned it was the community she grew up with that has made the largest impact. It's something she thinks is so crucial to leadership development, and in this episode she shares ways that young leaders can cultivate a strong community in their lives. She also talks about how she models a radical, but people-oriented depth of the experience that points to a thriving culture in her work and family.  This conversation reaffirms the importance of connection with the people we surround ourselves with and illustrates the gravity and levity in community-centered leadership.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Lisa Asedillo is the co-founder of New Day Church in the Bronx, New York, a vibrant, queer, anti-racist and boundary-crossing faith community.  As an ethicist, liturgist, and the Assistant Professor of Worship and Liturgical Ethics at Pacific School of Religion, Lisa's leadership approach focuses heavily on personal introspection, community building, ritual, and creating safe spaces for marginalized people to make their voices heard when doing the work of justice. She shares how her mixed race heritage as a Filipina American, transnational upbringing, and queer identity has shaped her leadership style to be radically inclusive of others. We hear about the trust she's rebuilt in herself and her inner voice to be confident enough to lead as her full, authentic self. She also encourages younger spiritually rooted leaders to do the same, if they want to have a greater impact on marginalized communities.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode, we sat down with Drew Jackson, published poet and President/Co-Founder of Pax, a partner of Ignite. Drew is deeply engaged in anti-racism work, primarily in church contexts, and is actively involved with the work of peacemaking and multi-faith coalition building for the common good, both nationally and internationally. He talks about how he got into doing justice work by way of influence from his mother and shares an epiphany he had with his faith while in college, as it shaped his worldview and how he moves as a leader. He also talks about how the art of poetry has affected his leadership approach, encouraging him to show up in his work as his fullest and most authentic self.  This episode offers our community inspiration on maintaining the faith and sustaining in the hard work of justice.Check out Drew's Book of Poetry: God Speaks Through WombsPre Order His Upcoming Book: Touch the Earth: Poems on The WayTo get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Josh Buck is an author, filmmaker, teacher, church planter, and faith-based entrepreneur. He's the co-founder of Pax, a partner of Ignite, and an organization designed to inspire and equip the next generation through slow, beautiful, Jesus-centered content created by people of color. Holding a PhD in intercultural studies, focusing on the problem of racial violence, Josh is passionate about social justice. As a leader, ally, and new author of Everyday Activism, he encourages people to identify unjust systems they want to change, fight for those who are oppressed, respond in acts of compassion, and use their power, status, and privilege to empower others and dismantle corrupt systems. Through his new book and in our conversation, Josh lays out how his analysis and understanding of his personal faith is a blueprint for his leadership and shares actionable steps to take to help make meaningful change without feeling overwhelmed or burned out. We learn about the concept of Jubilee and what it takes for emerging and established leaders to faithfully live as activists committed to human flourishing and renewal one day at a time. If you've wanted to get involved in justice work but aren't sure where to start, this conversation will inspire you on how to develop everyday habits to make the world a better place. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Rev. Adriene Thorne incorporates art and creativity into all aspects of her life, including her faith and her leadership as the Senior Pastor of The Riverside Church in NYC. She talks with us about the importance and value of incorporating play and a childlike spirit into our daily lives, to stay grounded amidst the chaos of the world. As she discovered and gave herself permission to incorporate art and play into her ministry, we also hear about how she discovered the Pacific School of Religion to be a place for her to explore what that could really look like. Rev. Thorne utilizes those same concepts and values in her sermons at Riverside Church, as the first Black woman to serve as Senior Minister there. Tune in, and be inspired to incorporate more ingenuity into your leadership!Link/Mention: My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending our Hearts and Bodies by Resmaa MenakemTo get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Peter Rios, author, leadership consultant, professor at the Pacific School of Religion, and Ignite's Academic Director, to learn what he discovered about himself that led him to shift from teaching in churches to teaching in classrooms and within organizations. He talks with us about the limited voices and representation in higher education and the corporate sector, and what it takes to bring justice and equity to these spaces. He highlights the importance of seeking out coaches or mentors from marginalized spaces, so people of color can continue to do the hard work of justice for human flourishing and organizational thriving. We learn how white supremacy doesn't just harm people of color, and the importance of us all fighting for a more just, equitable world for all. Dr. Rios' book: Untold Stories: The Latinx Leadership Experience in Higher Education Website: https://www.peterriosconsulting.com/To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode, we're highlighting 12 Latinx/Hispanic leaders from our community and some impactful insights they shared as previous guests of the show. From Season 1 to our most recent wrap on Season 4, we've had the privilege and honor of sitting down to have deep, important conversations around spirituality, identity, and justice, "en conjunto", or all together.Links to keep up with and support our leaders:  Joanne Rodríguez and the Hispanic Theological Initiative: https://hti.ptsem.edu/Rev. David Vásquez-Levy: https://www.psr.edu/faculty/rev-david-vasquez-levy-dmin/Victoria Rosales at SHARED: https://sharedsacredspace.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoria_rosales/La Mikia Castillo's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lamikiacastillo/Grace Martino Suprice and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship: https://cbf.netDr. Martha Hernandez and the Ronald McDonald House Bay Area: https://rmhcbayarea.orgJonathan Murillo's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathonjamesmurillo/Dr. Patrick Reyes' Books, The Purpose Gap and Nobody Cries when We Die: https://www.thepurposegap.comDr. Reyes and the Forum for Theological Exploration: https://fteleaders.orgHeidi Lepe and Brown Beloved Collective: https://www.instagram.com/brownbelovedco/To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Reverend Adam Russell Taylor, president of Sojourners, is as much a minister as he is an activist and community organizer. We had the pleasure of kicking off Season 5 with him, hearing how he weaves his faith into his political activism as a reflection of the ministry of Jesus Christ. We learn about how he discovered his passion for building and strengthening social movements and the power of one person in making change. He also talks about the integration of one's faith into a more progressive political platform, his book, A More Perfect Union: A New Vision for Building the Beloved Community, and how the legendary John Lewis played an important role in his work. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

A recurring theme we've seen throughout this season has been the importance of rest. On this episode, we sat down with Danielle Hawthorne, VP of Programs at Code2040 just after her three-month sabbatical. Danielle shares how she was able to reset and refresh herself, her spirituality, and her work with Code2040, a people of color Organization that serves to mobilize the largest racial equity community in tech. As the leader of a team that equips Black and Latinx technologists to be racial equity advocates in their careers, communities, and on their college campuses, she shares how important and how much of a privilege it is to be able to take time off in a world that rewards the hustle. Danielle also offers inspiration on how marginalized communities can still renew themselves and their spirits in the day-to-day. This is a soulful message every leader needs to hear. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Nikole Lim is a speaker, educator, freelance filmmaker, author of Liberation Is Here, and Founder/International Director of Freely In Hope, an organization that supports and is led by survivors of sexual violence in Kenya and Zambia. We had a conversation with Nikole about the true meaning of allyship, what we all need to do to support survivors, and the role of faith-based institutions in both helping and hindering this work. We continue to explore this season's theme of the reclamation of agency and faith for marginalized people, no matter where you are in the world. If your organization is interested in partnering with Freely in Hope to create a more equitable and supportive environment for survivors and other marginalized groups alike, please reach out to the Freely in Hope team: https://www.freelyinhope.org/contact/To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode we sat down with Heidi Lepe, a Honduran-Mexican writer, theologian, and storyteller from West Los Angeles. As the founder of Brown Beloved Co., a collective space at the intersection of faith, raíces (cultural roots), and justice, her work centers on the spirituality and liberation of Brown women, the Brown church, and Latine/x communities in the U.S.  Heidi is also a current student at Duke University Divinity School, pursuing her Master of Divinity degree, and she shares what it has been like for her as a Latina woman in seminary. This conversation explores what liberation could look like for communities of color, when we decolonize what most of us have been taught about Christianity, and center those voices instead. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode, we sit down with Dr. Patrick Reyes, author of The Purpose Gap and Nobody Cries when We Die.  As the Senior Director of Learning Design at The Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE),  inspiring young people to explore their passion, purpose, and calling, Patrick oversees learning and resource development around vocational exploration, leadership, and innovation. He shares his personal story, professional journey, and how he wrote both of his books for communities of color to have a better understanding of why our dreams may not come to fruition as easily as others.  We learn about the purpose gap that exists when people don't have access to the resources and opportunities to fulfill their purpose in life, and how the voices and spirits from our lives are the reason the gap closes for some and widens for others. He talks about his own upbringing in California's Central Valley, and how people like his abuela, Carmen, encouraged him to keep going through his academic career even when many within these institutions made him feel like he shouldn't. This episode is about the adversities many first-generation scholars of color experience in their journeys, and it reminds us all that we have the backing of our ancestors "carrying forward their spirit and fire of survival." To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this Episode, we sat down with friend of the podcast and Ignite's very own Jonathon Murillo. Through his experience in community and organizational development and spiritual formation, Jonathon has developed a deep commitment to social transformation through meaningful work. He guides leaders, culture creators, and change makers into moments of epiphany and meaningful action through his work as a coach, consultant, speaker, and content strategist for Ignite. Jonathon talks with us about what leadership in the workplace needs to look like in the 21st century and how our innovative Wisdom-Based Leadership framework brings community into dialogue with the wisdom of our spiritual and cultural traditions and marginalized voices. We hear about some major shifts he has seen in his work with the social impact-oriented leaders taking our course, from where they started to where they are today as more courageous, creative and contemplative leaders that our moment needs. It's a new way to lead, offering practical tangible skills to collaborate, communicate, and to care effectively. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

What does it look like to reclaim taking up space, standing firm in your capabilities? Dr. Jessica Taylor, CEO and founder of Leadership Training Initiative, sat down with us to share what it looks like on her journey, awakening agency, saying “No,” and kindly rejecting what is not for her. She talks about reclaiming one's value in the workplace, especially as women of color, and what equitable leaders actually look like. We hear about the long term gain of having internal check-ins and making sure we're engaging our teams and organizations out of a thriving wholeness rather than obligation. Our community also receives inspiration on what it means to protect one's peace and about the impact self-work has on future generations.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this Episode, we have a conversation with Jonathan Dumas, founder and owner of Common Culture Coaching & Consulting. As an Organizational Psychologist and Leadership Coach, Jonathon works with organizations to create more equitable and inclusive work environments. He talks with us about why he started his consulting business, reclaiming parts of himself on the journey, and what it takes to be a culturally conscious leader. We hear about his podcast Real Talk With Dumas that explores how the societal forces of racism, sexism, and a whole lot of other isms impact our lives. He also shares why leaders should create space for their teams to be unafraid of failure and the importance of finding support and resource in community.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this Episode, we sit down with Nivi Achanta writer, speaker, and founder and CEO of Soapbox Project. With a passion for sustainability, social justice, and all things tech, Nivi helps people create positive social impact in the world. She was once told that in order to stand out and leave a large impact on the world, you must run towards the fire. She took that advice to heart. Nivi shares her origin story, building community around climate justice, and how busy people can truly tackle issues they care about - whether that's wildfires and climate change, racial justice, or more! She talks about reclaiming one's agency and shares inspiration on how to find hope in the beauty of small acts of service adding up.  To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode, we sit down with national trainer, spiritual director, and professor, Dr. Kit Evans-Ford, founder of Argrow's House. She shares how she was able to live out her calling in life by combining her love of ministry and serving female survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence with social entrepreneurship. We hear about her own healing journey and the nurturing community/social enterprise she created to help others through their healing process to achieving social and economic vitality. She offers our community inspiration on creating something that's deeply connected to who you are and practical wisdom on how to move forward with purpose.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Meet Kriselle Gabriel, the fabulous new face and voice of Change Happens Now! Kriselle is a writer and entrepreneur with a passion for sharing stories, connecting people, and empowering those from marginalized communities to go for their passions. She's also the founder of @EmpoweredInColor, a movement and podcast dedicated to helping people of color thrive in both business and in life. In this Season 4 opening episode, our very own Jonathon Murillo sits down with our new host to talk about her work, her unique vantage point, and some of her hopes for the season! To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode we have a conversation with Dr. Martha Hernández, an incredible young leader with extensive clinical and research experience working with underserved populations in schools, universities, community mental health clinics, and hospitals. As Director of the Spanish Training Track and Associate Director of Family Support Services of Ronald McDonald House, her service work includes advocacy on behalf of the children, adolescents, and couples there, as well as families residing there with a critically ill child. Her immigration work includes working with attorneys so that immigrants are not re-traumatized on their journey. Dr. Hernández is a recipient of the American Psychological Association Henry Tomes Award for the Advancement of Ethnic Minority Psychology, an award given once every 8 years to an emerging Latinx psychologist who has made many significant contributions toward the empowerment of ethnic minority individuals and communities. She talks with us about growing up in the Central Valley of California, fighting for her rights and for those around her, and how being a Latinx female, born to Mexican immigrant parents, and a farm worker with her parents, has shaped her life and leadership journey. She sheds light on the importance of creating educational opportunities where there is almost no emphasis on higher education for Latinx communities, the critical need to use our voices when so much is at stake in these times, and how finding resource in a collective can be helpful.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

In this Episode we have a heart to heart conversation with Renjy Abraham, the Dean of Spiritual Life and Cultural Integration at Multnomah University. Serving in the Diversity and Inclusive Development Department, Renjy is passionate about walking with BIPOC leaders as they discover their true selves. As an Indian American, born and raised in the Pacific NW, Renjy brings a unique skill set and view of collaboration with his 17-year career in multicultural leadership in Oregon. He talks with us about how he encourages young emerging leaders to be agents of change right where they are in Portland, and expanding that out to the world. We learn about the connection between spiritual formation and cultural identity and the dangers in keeping these two areas of development separate from one another. He also offers encouragement to our community who are committed to spirituality, justice, and wisdom in their leadership.Resource Mentioned: Mixed Feelings, Poems and Stories To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode, we sit down with Andrew Kim, the Teaching and Small Groups Pastor at Kensington Church in the metro Detroit area. Originally from Vancouver, Canada, Andrew has traveled widely, throughout Asia, Europe, Central America and Africa. One of his greatest passions is to see Asian Americans live more fully into their God given identity. He shares an epiphany he had at the beginning of the pandemic and how that has fueled his leadership journey. We learn how Asian American identity is minimized, and why it's not an obstacle to overcome, but rather a gift to be embraced. Andrew also offers up some critical wisdom for young + established leaders about continuing moving forward in this time.  To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Can we do this again? Can we begin again? Can we keep moving forward after all of this? These are the questions Episode 5 answers with a wholehearted YES!  We sat down with Kevin Sweeney, the co-founder and curator of Imagine, an urban church in Honolulu that is welcoming of all people, sees imagination as the key to the future, and chooses substance over hype. He's the host of podcast called “The Church Needs Therapy” and is the author of the book, “The Making of a Mystic” which will be out in 2022.  As a mystic, church planter, podcaster, and author, Kevin is committed to creating environments for creativity, cultural innovation, social healing, and personal transformation. He talks with us about his quest to find what's real, what matters, and what we're all doing here and shares how an amazing transformative moment at 18 years old set him on this trajectory.  We hear about his challenges leading a spiritual community and the creative ways he goes about meeting them. He also talks about how the seemingly opposite modes of hustle and contemplative care inform each other and work together in his life. He offers us potent medicine on how we need to allow whatever our communities looked like before the pandemic to die, so we can collectively be born again and midwife in this new moment together and encourages us to open our hearts again, to believe in the future, after so much loss. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode we have a conversation about building lasting connections across cultures and the vital connection between our faith and our cultural identity. Dr. Michelle Ami Reyes is an Indian American author, speaker, church planter, and activist who is deeply engaged with anti-racist work. As the co-founder of a non profit called Made for Pax, she inspires and equips the next generation of like-minded communities of color, to pursue peace, justice, and wholeness in the world. She shares some of the challenges and victories getting her non-profit going and insights for emerging leaders wanting to take on such a movement. She takes on the big issues of cultural difference, stereotyping, appropriation, and racism, and talks about what it takes to build cross-cultural relationships that lead to healing. We also learn what inspired her to write her new book, Becoming All Things: How Small Changes Lead to Lasting Connections Across Cultures, and what she hopes readers will take away from it.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode, we drop in with Grace Martino-Suprice, a young leader with a heart for community development and desires to help the Church create bridges of love with the world around it. Since an early age, Grace has served with various congregational and parachurch ministries including UrbanPromise in Wilmington, DE and Because Justice Matters in San Francisco, CA.  She is currently the Outreach and Growth Specialist at the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship,  where she seeks to cultivate engagement and partnerships with individuals, organizations and churches. Supporting Familia, CBF's Latino Network and the Pan-African Koinonia Network, she ensures the growth, participation, and true belonging of people of color within the Fellowship.  She's also on the Together for Hope team that works alongside organizations in the 301 poorest counties in the U.S. through an asset based community development model. Grace is a Puerto Rico native and currently resides in New London, Connecticut.We learn some of the shaping moments on her own leadership journey and why she still chooses to serve in her local church and the community she came from. She talks about the impostor syndrome phenomenon that affects emerging and established leaders alike and how we can change the narrative inside our own heads to move past that, for ourselves and the communities we serve. Grace also shares her hopes and dreams for the future and offers some practical advice for leaders navigating these times.To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode, we sit down with Arlene Mendoza, a dynamic leader in our community with 14 years experience in the tech space, who recently pivoted to Software Product Strategy/Management in the Social Enterprise space and sits on the Board of Moran Consulting and Pacific School of Religion. She was invited to be a guest speaker in our certificate program, talking about creative communication, because of her success around transformational leadership and her passions at the intersection of spirituality, technology and innovation.She talks with us about what communication looks like when bringing together a variety of perspectives. We also hear about spirituality in the tech space, leadership wisdom from ancestors, and the Oaxacan concept of 'tequio' in relation to the collective. She sheds light on integrating her commitments to justice, spirituality, and creativity and offers wisdom and inspiration for emerging leaders who may be feeling stuck in this moment."With tequio, I didn't realize it was a philosophy of my grandparents. I just thought it was a way of life. Every culture, every ancestral wisdom, has those nuggets of what some of our ancestors did that contributed, in some way, to improve the collective."To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

Who is Jalen Seawright? Aside from being the fabulous new face and voice of Season 3 of Change Happens Now Podcast, Jalen is a young dreamer who wants to amass a lot of change in this world! He's passionate about justice, watching people come together, and bridging gaps between communities that are different from each other. He's an entrepreneur who started WeCollectively, a nonprofit working on that works on creating content, helping people grow in their empathy and understanding of each other. He's a mentor and a figure in the lives of the kids and youth in his community. He's also a father and husband!  In this Season 3 opening episode, our very own Jonathon Murillo sits down with our new host to talk about some of his origin story moments, those moments that really shaped who he is and got him to where he is now. He takes us through his journey of pain and possibility, starting at 14, an inflection point of his life, with the awkwardness, emergence, confusion, complexity, and fire that started in his heart back then, to begin to leverage his musical and artistic abilities to get into circles in places where he could amass change and make beauty out of spaces of difference. He also talks about his vision of justice, offers encouragement to our community of emergent leaders, and shares his hopes for Season 3!  "You don't have to have it all figured out! There's this expectation young leaders put on themselves, because we do feel a weight of the calling and we want to be able to thoroughly think through exactly what we want to accomplish. But I think that if we realize, and we understand that we're all on a journey...I think we have to live in the moment. It's not about what you have going on five years from now, while it's great to dream and build, it's really listening for the voice of the spirit to tell you and lead you to the next step. Don't worry about the expectations of having to have it all figured out. Do it!"  Follow Jalen and his work on Instagram @seawright__ To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this Season 2 wrap episode, we continue the conversation on transformative leadership with @lamikiacastillo a powerful and inspiring Afro-Latina leader, born and raised in South Central Los Angeles. As a professor, consultant, and organizer over the last 20 years...a commitment to social justice, racial equity, and social change permeate every aspect of her personal and professional life.  We talk with her about how the twists and turns of her own personal journey set her up to make a unique difference in her work and reflect on how seemingly symbolic victories in the work of justice can both help and harm the cause.  As a wisdom-based leader, La Mika also sheds light on a competency in this leadership framework; how and when collaboration becomes courageous. She also shares keys to being sustained in such challenging and meaningful work for the long haul. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode, Byron Chung, our Executive Director, sits down with two phenomenal leaders in our community.  Areej Masoud is a Christian-Aramean Palestinian, born and currently living in Bethlehem. She is justice oriented, takes action towards change through the faith-based communities she belongs to, and is passionate in raising awareness and promoting Palestinians' struggles through local and public speaking events. Based on her experience in communication, development and advocacy, she is working on an online based startup in branding, communications and social media marketing in hopes she can help other startups rise, despite the economic restrictions the occupation forces upon Palestinians.  Reverend Michael Yoshii received the Pacific School of religion Distinguished Alumni Award in 2002, recognizing his pastoral leadership and social justice activism, including work on local racial justice issues, LGBTQ equity, and affordable housing activism. In post retirement Ministry, he serves on the International Committee for human rights in the Philippines Global Council, and is a co chair of the Friends of Wadi Foquin, a partnership started in 2009 through Michael's previous congregation and other United Methodist Churches with the Palestinian village of Wadi Foquin located southwest of Bethlehem on the green line. Wadi Foquin is a small and actually somewhat obscure village -- but is emblematic of much of the West Bank Palestinian agricultural/farm reality. It's a microcosm of the larger Palestinian reality. Michael first met Areej in Bethlehem on one of his trips to the region, and a their connection has been fortified through solidarity.  Areej and a cohort of emerging interfaith and cross sector leaders recently completed our Wisdom-Based Leadership Certificate program. In this conversation they share about that experience and provide a firsthand telling of what it looks like to create social transformation in the midst of the Palestinian reality. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

On this episode we drop in with Ashley Sikorski, founder, CEO, and head coach at Sway leadership. Sway serves leaders and their teams in developing emotional health and intelligence to create a culture of humanity in their organizations and through their work. In this conversation, we talk about the power of listening, the power of tending to our inner person as leaders, and why it's important to bring our teams in on that work. We hear about the importance of doing the hard work of self-awareness in our own formation and about the trap of trend that even those most committed to emotional intelligence can still fall into. This episode provides timely encouragement with how to move forward as a leader committed to cultivating this kind of culture in your organization. https://www.swayleadership.com/To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.