Navigating Adaptive Leadership and Spiritual Resilience with Bishop Delores Williamston

In this engaging episode of 'In the Sandbox,' hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups welcome Bishop Delores Williamston, the Bishop of the Louisiana Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. Bishop Williamston shares her journey as a military veteran, a clergy leader, and a grandmother, discussing her adaptive leadership style and the challenges faced by the church during turbulent times. She emphasizes the importance of balancing tradition with innovation, finding joy despite adversity, and the role of the Holy Spirit in ministry. The conversation is enriched by Bishop Williamston's reflections on her African American church upbringing and her methods of maintaining personal resilience, including Sabbath rest and hobbies. Together, they explore what it means to lead with faith, adapt to changing contexts, and inspire community engagement. The episode concludes with practical advice for clergy and laity on sustaining joy and optimism in their ministries.

00:00 Welcome to In the Sandbox

00:41 Introducing Bishop Delores Williamston

02:32 Leadership and Adaptive Ministry

03:52 Challenges and Generational Gaps in Ministry

06:22 Take Up Your Mat and Walk

10:41 Finding Rest and Sabbath

14:06 Dealing with Adversity

18:39 Joy and Optimism in Ministry

23:46 Humor and Improvisation in Ministry

26:00 Authenticity in Faith and Improvisation

26:49 The Role of the Holy Spirit in the United Methodist Church

27:22 Formation in the Black Church

28:09 The Power of Songs in the Black Church

29:30 Personal Journey and the Influence of the Black Church

35:40 Awakenings in the Church

39:22 Community Engagement and Music Education

44:21 Rapid-Fire Questions with Bishop Williamston

49:41 Closing Remarks and Prayer

Find Bishop Williamston:

Website: https://www.la-umc.org/about-our-bishop

About Hub4Innovation:

The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question, “What if?”

Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities.

Find us on:

Instagram: @hub4innovation

Website: hub4innovation.org

Soundcloud: Soundcloud.com/hub4innovation

In the Sandbox with Reverend Adam Hamilton: Adaptive Leadership and Evolving Ministry

In this episode of 'In the Sandbox where Creativity and Utility Meet,' hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups have an inspiring conversation with Reverend Adam Hamilton, the founding pastor of Church of the Resurrection in Leewood, Kansas. Adam, a best-selling author and influential leader in modern United Methodism, discusses the nuances and challenges of adaptive leadership, the importance of embracing change, and reflecting on the wisdom gained through his years in ministry. The discussion touches on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the challenge of balancing care with personal limits, and his hopes for the future of church leadership. Adam also reflects on maintaining authentic connections with his congregation, even amid criticism, and emphasizes the significance of humility and adaptability in effective leadership. The episode concludes with a 'hot seat' segment where Adam answers rapid-fire questions about his life outside ministry, providing a personal touch to an insightful conversation.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:22 Understanding Adaptive Leadership

03:57 Personal Growth and Leadership Wisdom

07:20 Navigating Change and Challenges

11:41 Caring for the Congregation

19:56 Handling Difficult Decisions

30:21 Handling Criticism as a Leader

30:59 Historical Examples of Leadership Challenges

32:20 Personal Experiences with Criticism

34:59 Dealing with Disappointment and Guilt

38:42 Adapting to New Realities in Ministry

45:05 The Role of Technology in Modern Ministry

47:06 Fun and Personal Insights

53:19 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Find Reverend Adam Hamilton:

IG: @revadamhamilton

X: @RevAdamHamilton

Website: https://resurrection.church/staff/

About Hub4Innovation:

The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question, “What if?”

Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities.

Find us on:

Instagram: @hub4innovation

Website: hub4innovation.org

Adaptive Leadership and Authentic Ministry with Rev. Dr. James Howell

In this episode of 'In the Sandbox,' hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups welcome Rev. Dr. James Howell, senior pastor of Myers Park United Methodist Church, to discuss leadership, wisdom, and his experiences. Dr. Howell shares insights from his ministry journey, touching on the challenges of adaptive leadership, the importance of authenticity, and building trust within a community. They explore themes of awe, travel, and the enduring practices of Christian faith. Rev. Howell highlights his latest book 'Everywhere is Jerusalem' and reflects on his perspective towards ministerial mistakes, adaptive leadership, and the power of love and vulnerability in ministry.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:44 Leadership in the Trenches

03:16 Building Trust and Personal Capital

10:51 Navigating Criticism and Mistakes

14:16 The Importance of Friendship in Ministry

20:09 Balancing Tradition and Innovation

25:13 Daily Practices for Effective Leadership

26:23 The Importance of Discipline

26:59 The Role of Reading in Clergy

27:13 Theological Reflections on Leadership

29:37 Travel and Its Impact

35:13 Experiencing Awe and Wonder

40:33 Rapid Fire Questions

47:51 Final Thoughts and Farewell

About Hub4Innovation:

The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question, “What if?”

Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities.

Find us on:

Instagram: @hub4innovation

Website: hub4innovation.org

Summary

In this episode of 'In the Sandbox', hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups engage with pastor and author Mark Feldmeir, exploring themes of leadership, faith, and community in a rapidly changing world. Mark discusses his unique leadership approach in a diverse congregation, the impact of the pandemic on church dynamics, and the importance of clarity in values. He shares insights on progressive theological conversations, the role of prayer, and the challenges of leading a large church. The conversation also touches on personal growth practices and innovative outreach initiatives, culminating in lighthearted questions that reveal Mark's personality and passions.

Takeaways

- Mark Feldmeir emphasizes the importance of clarity in leadership.

- Navigating diverse congregational beliefs requires vulnerability and openness.

- Post-pandemic, congregations have experienced natural sorting based on values.

- Engaging in progressive conversations can attract like-minded individuals.

- Rethinking traditional theological constructs can lead to deeper understanding.

- Prayer can be redefined in a relational context with God.

- Proactive leadership is more effective than reactive responses to issues.

- Core values of a church should guide its community practices.

- Innovative outreach can strengthen community ties and engagement.

- Personal growth practices are essential for effective leadership.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to the Conversation

01:03 - Exploring Leadership in a Diverse Context

04:30 - Navigating Change Post-Pandemic

07:51 - Engaging in Progressive Conversations

10:17 - Rethinking Prayer and Theological Constructs

13:11 - Leadership in a Large Church

16:53 - Proactive vs. Reactive Leadership

19:20 - Core Values and Community Practices

22:45 - Innovative Outreach and Community Engagement

23:15 - Learning from Mistakes in Leadership

28:07 - Personal Practices for Growth

31:30 - Looking Ahead: Future Initiatives

34:29 - Fun and Lighthearted Questions

39:35 - Closing Thoughts and Prayer

Find [GUEST]:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/markfeldmeir/

Website: https://www.markfeldmeir.com/

About Hub4Innovation:

The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question, “What if?”

Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities.

Find us on:

Instagram: @hub4innovation

Website: hub4innovation.org

Navigating Theological Education and Inclusive Leadership with Rev. April Casperson

In this episode of 'In the Sandbox,' hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups welcome Reverend April Casperson, an ordained deacon in the West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church and Director of Enrollment Management at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio (MTSO). They discuss the evolving landscape of theological education, particularly the shift to high-flex and online models in response to the pandemic, and the importance of accessibility and inclusive leadership. April shares insights on the challenges faced by seminary students, the role of technology, and her passion for fostering diverse and future-ready faith leaders. The episode also touches on the intersection of ecology and theology at MTSO, and the significance of creating supportive environments for students of all ages and backgrounds. The conversation concludes with a fun rapid-fire round and a prayer for April's continued success and impact.

00:00 Welcome to In the Sandbox

00:46 Introducing Reverend April Casperson

01:43 The Evolution of Theological Education

02:47 High Flex Learning at MTSO

04:24 Challenges and Opportunities in Online Education

10:14 Commitment to Ecological Sustainability

13:24 Balancing Accessibility and Academic Rigor

22:56 Supporting Diverse Leaders in the Church

25:04 The Role of Deacons in Modern Ministry

28:07 Discussing Seminary Choices

28:31 Questions for Prospective Students

30:22 Encouraging Older Students

34:07 Challenges in Ministry

37:23 Aha Moments at MTSO

39:59 Rapid Fire Questions

44:42 Conclusion and Farewell

Find April:

Website: https://www.abingdonpress.com/authors/april_casperson/

About Hub4Innovation:

The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question, “What if?”

Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities.

Find us on:

Instagram: @hub4innovation

Website: hub4innovation.org

Adaptive Leadership and Spiritual Resilience with Bishop Hee-Soo Jung

In this episode of 'In the Sandbox where Creativity and Utility Meet,' hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups sit down with Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, Episcopal leader of the West and East Ohio Conferences of the United Methodist Church. They discuss adaptive leadership amidst challenges, the significance of faith and resilience, and Bishop Jung's journey from South Korea to leading in Ohio. Bishop Jung shares personal anecdotes about his spiritual practices, community engagement, and vision for the church. The episode also delves into his love for nature, classical music, and his treasured walks on the Camino de Santiago. Listeners will gain insights on embracing change, maintaining joy, and finding clarity through faith.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:47 Meet Bishop Hee-Soo Jung

01:59 Embracing Adaptive Leadership

04:46 The Role of the Holy Spirit

06:57 Facing Challenges with Faith

11:13 Merging Ohio Conferences

17:58 Spiritual Practices for Leadership

24:20 Personal Connection and Presence

25:30 Navigating Leadership and Vulnerability

26:04 Embracing Community Wisdom

26:44 Clarity Over Certainty in Faith

29:23 The Call to Ministry

30:39 Rejecting Violence and Dominance

32:50 Cultural Reflections and Anti-Racism

34:13 Fun and Personal Questions

34:39 Cherished Childhood Memories

37:31 Musical Preferences and Travel

41:37 Heart Over Head in Decision Making

43:41 Final Thoughts and Prayer

About Hub4Innovation:

The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question, “What if?”

Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities.

Find us on:

Instagram: @hub4innovation

Website: hub4innovation.org

Adaptive Leadership and Fresh Expressions: A Conversation with Dan Jackson

In this episode of 'In the Sandbox where Creativity and Utility Meet,' hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups interview His Holiness, Dan Jackson. The discussion covers Dan Jackson's extensive leadership experience, particularly in the Florida Annual Conference where he served as the district superintendent and was instrumental in developing hundreds of fresh expressions. They delve into adaptive leadership, the importance of evaluating and evolving church programs, and innovative funding strategies for new church starts. Dan also shares personal anecdotes from his career, his transition to retirement, and his involvement in leadership development. The episode concludes with a fun lightning round and a prayer.

00:00 Welcome to In the Sandbox

00:42 Introducing Dan Jackson

01:10 Dan's Journey and Leadership

02:23 Adapting to Change

02:49 Challenges During COVID-19

04:37 Fresh Expressions in Florida

07:22 Evaluating Church Programs

14:25 New Church Development Strategies

20:15 Introduction to mLab and Women Pastors

21:19 Restructuring Church Financing in Florida

23:00 Challenges and Successes in Church Funding

24:24 Adaptive Leadership and Fresh Expressions

26:53 The Impact of Dinner Churches

29:10 Collaboration and Innovation in Ministry

30:19 Retirement and Personal Reflections

33:21 Lightning Round: Fun and Personal Questions

36:33 Conclusion and Contact Information

Find Rev. Dan Jackson:

Website: [email protected]

About Hub4Innovation:

The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question, “What if?”

Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities.

Find us on:

Instagram: @hub4innovation

Website: hub4innovation.org

In this episode of 'In the Sandbox where Creativity and Utility Meet,' hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups engage in a deep, insightful conversation with Reverend Lisa Yebuah, the dynamic lead pastor of the Southeast Raleigh Table. They explore topics ranging from adaptive leadership during the pandemic, collective discernment, and the significance of unlearning hierarchical church models. Reverend Lisa shares her experiences and insights on trusting one's instincts, the importance of listening to the still small voice of God, and how focusing on black church traditions enriches their predominantly white congregation. She delves into the challenges and rewards of leading a faith community that is deeply collaborative and body-centric. Reverend Lisa also talks about the necessity of addressing ideologies within the church, rather than just differing opinions, and the importance of creating new ways of showing up in ministry. The episode concludes with thoughtful reflections on the need for grace, flexibility, and the continuous unlearning and relearning required in contemporary pastoral leadership.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:38 Lisa Yebuah's Journey and Adaptive Leadership

05:22 Collective Discernment and Community Dynamics

09:23 Embracing Humanity and Overcoming Constructs

15:16 Navigating Leadership and Community Challenges

23:13 The Role of Trust and Authority in Ministry

27:21 Guiding Principles and Community Engagement

30:37 The Role of a Pastor: Inviting vs. Instructing

32:59 The Power of Collective Faith

36:33 Navigating Leadership and Ideologies

39:53 Challenges and Masks of Tomorrow's Church

49:51 Hot Seat Questions: Fun and Personal Insights

54:59 Final Thoughts and Blessings

Find Lisa:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/petite_pastor/

Website: https://seraleightable.org/southeast-raleigh-table-home/about-us/

About Hub4Innovation:

The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question, “What if?”

Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities.

Find us on:

Instagram: @hub4innovation

Website: hub4innovation.org

Adaptive Leadership and Evolving Church with Dr. Emanuel Cleaver III

In this episode of 'In the Sandbox,' hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups sit down with Dr. Emanuel Cleaver III, the senior pastor of St. James United Methodist Church in Kansas City. Dr. Cleaver discusses the challenges and strategies of adaptive leadership in the modern socio-political landscape, the decline in church attendance, and the importance of evolving worship practices. He emphasizes the need for evaluating and changing traditional practices, including Sunday school, to meet current needs. Dr. Cleaver also touches on the role of the church in social activism and community involvement, particularly in addressing local injustices. He shares his personal practices for maintaining peace and balance, including a strict observance of the Sabbath and participation in a supportive pastoral group. The episode concludes with a light-hearted lightning round and a prayer for continued guidance and support for Dr. Cleaver's mission.

00:00 Introduction to the Sandbox Podcast

00:40 Meet Dr. Emanuel Cleaver III

01:26 Challenges of Modern Church Leadership

03:30 Adapting Church Practices for the Future

06:05 The Role of Sunday School in Modern Times

10:00 Evolving Church Models and Community Engagement

13:50 Hybrid Worship and Online Community

17:41 Social Activism and Community Needs

20:53 Future Challenges and Adaptive Leadership

24:15 Police Department Control in Kansas City

26:34 Reflecting on Historical Practices

27:11 Reimagining Church Leadership

28:09 Unlearning Traditional Christianity

29:42 The Role of Belief and Action in Faith

33:45 Maintaining Peace and Support as a Pastor

35:39 The Importance of Sabbath

39:00 Fun and Lighthearted Questions

43:39 Closing Thoughts and Prayer

Find Dr. Emanuel Cleaver:

Website: https://www.ecleaver3.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorECIII

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleaveriii/

X: https://x.com/drec3

About Hub4Innovation:

The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question, “What if?”

Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities.

Find us on:

Instagram: @hub4innovation

Website: hub4innovation.org

Navigating Adaptive Leadership with Reverend Duane Anders

In this episode of 'In the Sandbox,' hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups are joined by Reverend Duane Anders from the Cathedral of the Rockies. They explore Duane's leadership journey, his unapologetic vocal stance on the gospel and inclusion, and his innovative approaches within the church. Duane recounts experiences from his trip to Palestine, his adaptive leadership during the pandemic, and the collaborative initiatives between churches. The episode touches on profound topics including racial tensions, politics, and finding common ground despite differences. A light-hearted speed round at the end adds a bit of fun and personal insight into Duane's character.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:41 Meet Reverend Duane Anders

01:07 Duane's Journey and Achievements

01:47 Creating Inclusive Spaces

04:24 Adaptive Leadership in Action

05:08 Navigating the Pandemic

08:35 Innovative Worship Services

10:50 Challenges and Pivots

14:12 Prophetic Leadership and Social Issues

14:44 Solidarity Trip to Palestine

19:47 Surviving and Thriving Amidst Adversity

20:20 The Importance of Being Informed

20:37 Loving Your Enemy and Not Becoming Them

21:23 Navigating Controversial Topics in Congregations

22:12 Collaborative Leadership and Adaptive Strategies

26:14 Embracing Tension and Cognitive Dissonance

29:29 Inviting People into the Messiness

33:59 Speed Round: Fun and Lighthearted Questions

37:19 Final Thoughts and Prayer

Find Duane:

X: @DuaneAnders

Website: cathedraloftherockies.org

About Hub4Innovation:

The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question: “What if?”

Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities.

Find us on:

Instagram: @hub4innovation

Website: hub4innovation.org