The R.A.C.E. Podcast

The R.A.C.E. – From Exodus to Ecology: Liberation Stories and Sacred Ground

In this powerful episode of The R.A.C.E. Podcast, we journey from the biblical story of Exodus to today’s urgent call for ecological justice. Our guests explore how liberation is not only spiritual but environmental — and how caring for the land is deeply rooted in our faith traditions.

Through sacred stories, personal reflections, and prophetic insight, we discuss what it means to reclaim our role as stewards of creation and how the Black Church is uniquely positioned to lead in the fight for climate justice.

Tune in as we connect liberation theology with the movement for a healthier planet — because freedom and flourishing must include the Earth beneath our feet.

Listen now. Be inspired. Be the revival.

#TheRACEPodcast 
#greenthechurch  
#FromExodusToEcology 
#faithandclimate  
#EnvironmentalLiberation 
#SacredGround 
#creationcare  
#blackchurchvoices  
#betherevival 

The R.A.C.E S2 EP7: Preaching Green: Eco-Theology in the Pulpit

In this heartfelt episode of Preaching Green: Eco-Theology in the Pulpit, the conversation turns toward culture, memory, and the sacred connection between land and legacy. A moving reflection on childhood summers, watermelon on the porch, and Southern family traditions opens the door to a deeper discussion on how place and heritage shape our spiritual identity.

The episode explores how green sermons don’t always require a specific Scripture about nature — because every sermon can be a green sermon. As one guest powerfully puts it, preaching green is about perspective. It’s about recognizing that creation, care, and justice are embedded in the gospel we preach every week.

Tune in to hear how eco-theology comes alive through stories, rooted in both scripture and the soil, and how every church can begin weaving sustainability into its sacred message.

#PreachingGreen
#GreenTheChurch 
#FaithAndClimate 
#EcoTheology 
#BlackChurchVoices 
#BeTheRevival

The R.A.C.E S2 EP5: Green Faith Rising: From Wilderness to Watered Gardens

In this rich and reflective episode of The R.A.C.E. Podcast, Green Faith Rising: From Wilderness to Watered Gardens, host Kenya Madison leads a moving discussion that dives deep into the sacred intersections of faith, farming, food justice, and Black resilience. Joined by Bobby and Daravia Rich, founders of Black Seeds Urban Farms in Memphis, Tennessee, and Tavia Gordon, Urban Agriculture Extension Agent at Florida A&M University, this episode brings together stories of land, legacy, and liberation.

The conversation opens with personal reflections on how these leaders were called to the land—not just to grow food, but to heal communities. The Riches share how their farm became a response to the food deserts and systemic disinvestment in Memphis, emphasizing that farming is not just an economic or environmental act, but a spiritual one. Tavia Gordon, who works through HBCU land-grant institutions, expands the dialogue by describing her work supporting small farmers, protecting intergenerational land ownership, and teaching youth the power of growing their own food. The episode also touches on the profound importance of passing down agricultural knowledge within families, especially in the Black community where land was once stolen, lost, or undervalued.

Throughout the episode, guests explore the challenges and triumphs of leading faith-rooted, Black-centered food initiatives. Topics range from the mental and spiritual impact of connecting to the soil, to advocating for urban agriculture policy, to the real-time hurdles of farm management, community engagement, and youth empowerment. Together, they paint a picture of what it means to turn “wilderness” into “watered gardens” — restoring not only the land, but also the dignity, power, and spiritual groundedness of the people working it.

In closing, Green Faith Rising becomes a call to action: to sow seeds not only in soil but in the hearts of future generations. The episode invites listeners to imagine a world where churches are clean energy hubs, gardens are sacred spaces, and Black communities reclaim and protect the land that has long been theirs. It’s a vision of wholeness rooted in justice, love, and deep care for the Earth.

The R.A.C.E. –  Bridging the Gap: Faith, Finances & Mental Wellness in the Modern Church

This conversation centers around the intersection of mental health, financial stability, and the evolving role of the church in community engagement, especially in a post-pandemic context. The speakers explore how mental wellness is connected to financial wellness, challenging stigmas around mental health and encouraging holistic approaches to care — including therapy, stillness, and spiritual grounding. They emphasize that feeling overwhelmed doesn't always mean illness; sometimes, it means you're carrying too much without support.

The dialogue also dives into the idea that the church must move beyond traditional teachings of tithing and scripture, and begin to provide practical support systems — such as financial literacy, counseling, and community gardens — as ministries in their own right.

Further, there's a call to "green the budget" — meaning communities and churches should align their spending with justice by investing in sustainable practices like local food systems, renewable energy, and community programs. The group discusses how church and community must no longer function as separate entities but instead collaborate through outreach, inclusivity, and intergenerational communication.

At its core, this conversation is a powerful reflection on how churches and communities can restructure leadership, build bridges, and create systems that heal, sustain, and empower people — mind, body, and spirit.

The R.A.C.E. – Faith, Sustainability, and Community: Embracing Renewable Energy in the Church

In this inspiring episode, we dive deep into the intersection of sustainability, renewable energy, and community care, especially from a faith-based perspective. We explore how a church has embraced solar energy, not only to reduce its utility costs but also to serve as a beacon of stewardship, collaboration, and support for the surrounding community.

From providing a safe, powered refuge for those in need, to leading by example with environmental and financial stewardship, this conversation highlights how churches can play a crucial role in fostering sustainable, self-sufficient communities.

We discuss the challenges of introducing new projects like solar panels, balancing community concerns, and how partnerships with organizations like Together New Orleans and the United Methodist Foundation can amplify impact. The episode also touches on how the church’s example can inspire other faith communities to lead in the renewable energy transition, and the importance of taking a global perspective on clean energy policies.

We wrap up by discussing innovative ideas like solar farms and land leasing for green energy solutions, as well as the larger movement toward renewable energy worldwide.

Join us for an insightful conversation about how faith communities can make a meaningful difference in creating a more sustainable and compassionate world.

The R.A.C.E. – The Intersectionality of Faith, Mental Wellness, and the Climate Movement 

Join us for a powerful conversation about the interconnectedness of faith, mental wellness, and climate justice in our latest episode of The R.A.C.E. (Resilience, Advocacy, Community, and Empowerment) podcast! 

We’re joined by:  Kenya Madison from Healthier Delray – Championing mental wellness and community health.  Green The Church Co-Host – Leading faith-based climate justice initiatives.

In this 50-minute episode, we explore:

The spiritual connection between faith, worship, and mental resilience in the face of climate change.
How faith communities can integrate eco-consciousness into worship for emotional and environmental healing.
Tackling climate anxiety and eco-grief with education, action, and advocacy.
Practical steps for churches and communities to build resilience through green initiatives and mental health support.
Discover how faith-based solutions can empower us to heal both emotionally and environmentally. 

Tune in for a message of hope, healing, and tangible ways to take action in your community! 

#MentalWellness

#ClimateJustice

#FaithAndAction

#GreenTheChurch

#EcoHealing

#Podcast

Episode 1: Welcome to Season 2 of the Green The Church Podcast!

Join us for the first episode of Season 2 of the Green The Church Podcast as we kick off a powerful new season focused on faith, sustainability, and justice. Hosted by Rev. Dr. Ambrose Carroll, Emily, Benjamin, and Bruce, this episode introduces the R.A.C.E values—Resilience, Aboriginality, Courage, and Empowerment—and the Green The Church Pillars that guide our work.

We’ll share our personal connections to this movement, discuss what’s ahead this season, and invite you to be part of the conversation. Expect expert guests, inspiring stories, and actionable steps to create change within your community.

Subscribe now and join us on this journey to build a more sustainable and just future! #GreenTheChurchPodcast

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Rev. Dr. James McCray, the visionary leader behind the Tabernacle Community Development Corporation and Jones United Methodist Church in San Francisco. Rev. Dr. McCray discusses his pioneering efforts to combat the out-migration of African Americans from San Francisco, spearheading transformative housing projects, and ensuring the preservation of African American presence in the city. From affordable housing to community services, Rev. Dr. McCray shares the remarkable journey of faith-based activism, development, and leadership that is reshaping the city’s landscape.

Key Points:

1. Historical Context: Rev. Dr. McCray shares the challenges faced by the African American community in San Francisco during the 70s and 80s, with a sharp decline in population due to redevelopment.
2. The Formation of Tabernacle CDC: How five African American pastors came together to form a collective response to these challenges, focusing on community development, affordable housing, and sustaining African American culture.
3. Housing Projects and Partnerships: Key milestones in the development of over 600 affordable housing units and ongoing efforts to establish Tabernacle Commons, a mixed-use development project near Sacramento.
4. Community Services and Youth Empowerment: Insight into the wraparound services provided by Tabernacle, from childcare to job training, and the significance of engaging the church in these initiatives.
5. Facing New Challenges: Dr. McCray highlights the current struggle with insurance costs threatening the nonprofit's ability to continue supporting new developments.
6. Faith and Leadership: Encouraging other faith leaders across the nation to take similar steps in community development, even without formal business training, emphasizing the power of partnership and vision.

#CommunityDevelopment #FaithInAction #AffordableHousing #AfricanAmericanLeadership #SanFrancisco #NonprofitLeadership #ChurchAndCommunity #TabernacleCDC #UrbanDevelopment #SocialImpact #HousingJustice #FaithBasedLeadership #HousingEquality #BuildingCommunities

In this episode Rev. Dr. Ambrose Carroll is joined by Rev. Dr. Theron Jackson, Pastor of Morning Star Baptist Church (Shreveport, LA). They discuss the importance of holistic ministry, touching on leadership, community care, and the legacy of the Black Church in the South. Pastor Jackson shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Southwest Louisiana to becoming a community leader and theologian. Together, they explore the role of adaptability in ministry and how the church must evolve while staying rooted in tradition. This episode also highlights their upcoming National Green The Church Summit, with the theme “Homecoming: South to Black Power and the Restoration of Spiritual and Physical Wells”.

Topics Discussed:

• Reflections on leadership, legacy, and making an impact in ministry.
• The importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing world while holding onto spiritual traditions.
• Rev. Dr. Jackson’s personal journey from growing up in the projects to becoming a pastor and community leader.
• The upcoming National Green The Church Summit in Shreveport, LA, and its theme of homecoming and restoration.
• The role of the Black Church in addressing social justice and community needs.
• Rev. Dr. Jackson’s call for clergy to be equipped with both theological and practical knowledge, such as MDiv and MBA degrees, to lead effectively today.

#HolisticMinistry #BlackChurch #PastoralLeadership #TheronJackson #GreenTheChurch #SpiritualLegacy #CommunityCare #FaithAndJustice #AdaptabilityInMinistry #GreenTheChurchSummit #SouthToBlackPower #RestorationOfWells

In this episode, Rev. Dr. Ambrose Carroll sits down with Andre Ammons—Coach Dre of DAM Sport Sport Fitness—to discuss the powerful connection between faith, fitness, and environmentalism. They explore how spiritual stewardship extends beyond caring for the Earth to also caring for our bodies—God’s temple. Coach Dre shares his journey from college athlete to fitness entrepreneur, explaining how he has helped faith communities prioritize health, even during challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion covers the church's role in addressing health disparities in Black communities, strategies for mindful eating, and practical steps for achieving wellness goals. This inspiring conversation highlights the importance of being intentional stewards of both our planet and our personal health.

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• Environmentalism and Spiritual Stewardship – Embracing both planetary and bodily care as an extension of faith.
• Faith Community Health Challenges – The impact of poor nutrition and health in churches, particularly in Black communities.
• Mind, Body, and Soul – The holistic approach to fitness, involving mindful eating and physical wellness.
• Personal Stories – Pastor Ambrose and Coach Dre share emotional stories of family members lost to preventable health issues.
• COVID-19 Adjustments – How Coach Dre helped the community pivot during the pandemic, from home gyms to health coaching.
• Mindful Eating and Setting Goals – Practical tips on mindful nutrition, why goal-setting is essential, and how it reflects our stewardship of God's gifts.
• Coach Dre's Business Model – Insights into running a fitness business and the day-to-day work at DAM Sports.

#FaithAndFitness #EnvironmentalStewardship #HealthAndWellness #MindBodySoul #BlackChurchHealth #SustainableLiving #MindfulEating #GreenTheChurch #HealthyLiving