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029 - Leading with Heart: Mayor Freddie O'Connell on Vulnerability, Grace, and the Soul of Nashville
In this special episode of Vulnerability Muscle, host Reggie D. Ford sits down with Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell for a heart-centered conversation that goes far beyond politics. From the power of vulnerability in leadership to the importance of authentic community connection, Mayor O’Connell opens up about the emotional weight of public service, the challenges of navigating state and city tensions, and how he stays grounded in the midst of it all.
Reggie and Mayor O’Connell explore what it means to lead with compassion while facing the daily fires of executive decision-making. With reflections on family traditions, childhood memories, and his favorite Nashville gems (shoutout to Big Al’s Deli), this conversation is a reminder that behind every title is a human being with a story, a heart, and a deep desire to serve.
You’ll also hear insights about affordable housing, transit reform, and Nashville’s future—and why slowing down and doing the small things well might be the most radical act of leadership.
Whether you’re a civic leader, a lifelong Nashvillian, or someone who believes in leading with love, this episode is a masterclass in vulnerability and vision.
RESOURCES:
1) Financial Empowerment Center (FEC)
- The Nashville Financial Empowerment Center offers free, one-on-one financial counseling to residents of Davidson County and surrounding areas.
How to Schedule an Appointment:
Website: fec.nashville.gov
Phone: 615-748-3620
Counseling is available in English and Spanish, with translation services for other languages. Sessions are currently conducted remotely.
2) Mental Health Support
- 24-Hour Mental Health Crisis Line: Call 855-274-7471 to connect with trained crisis counselors.
- Mental Health Cooperative: Offers a 24-hour walk-in crisis center at 250 Cumberland Bend.
3) Emergency Financial Assistance
- NeedLink Nashville provides short-term financial assistance to help residents avoid homelessness and utility disconnections.https://givingmatters.civicore.com/needlink?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4) Volunteer and Nonprofit Engagement
- Hands On Nashville: Connects volunteers with local nonprofits across various sectors.
- Center for Nonprofit Excellence: Supports Middle Tennessee nonprofits with resources and training.
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By Reggie D. FordIn this special episode of Vulnerability Muscle, host Reggie D. Ford sits down with Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell for a heart-centered conversation that goes far beyond politics. From the power of vulnerability in leadership to the importance of authentic community connection, Mayor O’Connell opens up about the emotional weight of public service, the challenges of navigating state and city tensions, and how he stays grounded in the midst of it all.
Reggie and Mayor O’Connell explore what it means to lead with compassion while facing the daily fires of executive decision-making. With reflections on family traditions, childhood memories, and his favorite Nashville gems (shoutout to Big Al’s Deli), this conversation is a reminder that behind every title is a human being with a story, a heart, and a deep desire to serve.
You’ll also hear insights about affordable housing, transit reform, and Nashville’s future—and why slowing down and doing the small things well might be the most radical act of leadership.
Whether you’re a civic leader, a lifelong Nashvillian, or someone who believes in leading with love, this episode is a masterclass in vulnerability and vision.
RESOURCES:
1) Financial Empowerment Center (FEC)
- The Nashville Financial Empowerment Center offers free, one-on-one financial counseling to residents of Davidson County and surrounding areas.
How to Schedule an Appointment:
Website: fec.nashville.gov
Phone: 615-748-3620
Counseling is available in English and Spanish, with translation services for other languages. Sessions are currently conducted remotely.
2) Mental Health Support
- 24-Hour Mental Health Crisis Line: Call 855-274-7471 to connect with trained crisis counselors.
- Mental Health Cooperative: Offers a 24-hour walk-in crisis center at 250 Cumberland Bend.
3) Emergency Financial Assistance
- NeedLink Nashville provides short-term financial assistance to help residents avoid homelessness and utility disconnections.https://givingmatters.civicore.com/needlink?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4) Volunteer and Nonprofit Engagement
- Hands On Nashville: Connects volunteers with local nonprofits across various sectors.
- Center for Nonprofit Excellence: Supports Middle Tennessee nonprofits with resources and training.