Dr. Michael Fisher, the transformative pastor of Greater Zion Baptist Church, graces us with a conversation that traverses the valleys of personal loss and the peaks of innovative leadership. After a poignant hiatus following the loss of his parents, Dr. Fisher reemerges with a revitalized spirit and ambitious plans to expand his ministry to Santa Clarita and Houston. His insights on leadership and the upcoming Pivot Conference are not just plans—they're a blueprint for engaging communities through faith and empowerment.

Reminiscing about the vibrant church culture of Los Angeles, we reflect on how generational shifts have reshaped congregational dynamics. With a backdrop of personal stories, including my own journey from performing "Amazing Grace" to embracing my calling to preach, we explore the tension between maintaining traditions and embracing individuality in faith. These anecdotes reveal how humor and questioning societal norms have shaped my spiritual path, challenging us to redefine how we engage with our communities.

Dr. Fisher and I aren't afraid to confront the church's toughest conversations, from sexuality and mental health to fostering safe, authentic spaces for all individuals. Our dialogue underscores the importance of empathetic leadership and mental health awareness, highlighting personal experiences of burnout and resilience. As we share our stories of growth and healing, we aim to inspire others to embrace their journeys with faith and courage, fostering a future where open dialogue and compassion lead the way.

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Leah joins us in this compelling episode to navigate the intricate web of family values, education, and personal triumphs. Growing up in a strict Los Angeles household, Leah provides an eye-opening perspective on her rebellious youth and her brother's battles with bipolar disorder. Experience her transformative years at UC Berkeley, where she discovered the balance between newfound freedom and deeply rooted familial expectations. From tales of dodging church services to the serious pursuit of financial independence in marriage, Leah's story is filled with humor, heart, and honesty.

Travel through Leah's life as she candidly recounts her turbulent journey through love and self-discovery. Her experiences with a challenging relationship and her family's disapproval of an unhappy marriage paved the way for personal growth and the creation of the Ladylike Foundation. This inspirational nonprofit focuses on empowering young girls through education and mentorship. Throughout this journey, Leah's resilience shines through as she navigates fertility struggles, explores the emotional landscape of surrogacy, and embraces her life purpose with unwavering faith.

Our conversation with Leah wraps up with a lively discussion on financial independence within marriage and the art of speaking up in relationships. We also touch on cultural touchstones, from sports documentaries to the dynamics of personal entertainment preferences. As Leah shares her social media presence and community involvement, she invites you to be part of ongoing honest conversations about religion, politics, and pop culture. Join us in listening to Leah's inspiring narrative—a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of embracing one's life journey.

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Is it possible to lead a congregation through the darkest times of personal grief while maintaining a sense of community and faith? Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Breonis Mitchell, a dedicated pastor and community leader from Nashville, as he shares his inspiring journey. From his early days as a young preacher raised in the Bible Belt to his current role as the pastor of Mount Gilead Baptist Church, Breonis opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his ministry. He speaks candidly about the profound impact of losing his first wife to breast cancer, raising his children alone, and the trials and triumphs that have defined his pastoral career.

Experience the evolution of Breonis’s ministry, beginning with his formative years at American Baptist College and his rise to pastor at Boyd Street Church. Breonis recounts the profound growth of Greater Grace Church, which he co-founded with his late wife, Keisha, and the emotional challenges he faced after her passing. Reflecting on the unique religious culture of Nashville, we discuss the influential role of the church in shaping lives and communities, especially during challenging times such as the crack epidemic. Breonis offers insights into leading small, family-driven congregations and navigating the complexities of church leadership during times of personal loss and transition.

Discover the broader themes that Breonis navigates in his journey, such as balancing tradition with modernity in churches, planning for retirement within the pastoral community, and finding love after loss. Breonis shares his thoughts on the evolving nature of church traditions, the importance of financial planning for pastors, and the transformative power of empathy and genuine connection in ministry. Through personal anecdotes and professional wisdom, this episode provides a rich tapestry of lessons on resilience, faith, and the continuous journey of learning and growth in the life of a pastor.

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