Best Ministry In A Secular Age Podcasts (2025)

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In God We Trust (But Also Money!) 28:52

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4h ago28:52

28:52

All churches need money to run. But sometimes Derek feels more like a small business owner than a pastor sometimes. Andy explains how money actually has more power than God in the Secular Age, but this gives churches an opportunity to talk about money, stewardship, budgets, and promises in a new way. Our call-in line is open! Call us at (612) 405-8…

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Pete Hughes with the Lead Pastors Fellowship: Pastoral Courage, Revival, and Leading in the Power of the Spirit 1:06:19

23h ago1:06:19

1:06:19

Today’s episode of The Pastorate looks a little different. Instead of our typical format where Jason interviews a guest, we’re pulling back the curtain on our Lead Pastors Fellowship and inviting you into a conversation that Pete Hughes, pastor of KXC London, had with our cohort participants during one of their monthly Zoom sessions. We’re sharing …

1
A Pilgrimage into Letting Go 20:00

6d ago20:00

20:00

Andy has a brand new book out called "A Pilgrimage into Letting Go". He talks about the book and why it's important for pastors, parents, and all people to practice the art of letting go. Our call-in line is open! Call us at (612) 405-8071 to leave a question for a future episode!By Ministry in a Secular Age

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EPS:226- PROPHETIC WARNING: Hidden Curses of Worry Dolls 13:20

24d ago13:20

13:20

Are your "worry dolls" bringing you peace or opening doors to the enemy? Are these Guatemalan worry dolls a child's comfort or a gateway to spiritual attack? In today's episode of the Vertical Relationship Show, Melia exposes the dark side and a real experience she encountered in bringing these innocent-looking dolls into her home. Worry dolls are …

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Dom Ruso on Church Planting in Quebec, Pastoring in a Post-Christian Age, and Making the Bible Make Sense in a Secular World 44:48

27d ago44:48

44:48

In this conversation, Jason sits down with Dom Ruso, pastor of The 180 Church in Greater Montreal, to talk about the joys and challenges of church planting in one of the most secularized contexts in North America. Dom shares openly about his discernment journey, how God drew him and his wife back to Quebec despite initial resistance, and what it ha…

1
Empire State of Mind 28:05

1M ago28:05

28:05

Derek wonders about what the Gospel is when Christianity is formed in an Empire. Andy dusts off the works of an obscure scholar who saw history as separate times of First, Second, and Third Culture. And Fourth Culture is on the way whether we like it or not. Our call-in line is open! Call us at (612) 405-8071 to leave a question for a future episod…

1
Howard Jolly on Reconciliation in the Canadian Church, the Courage to Face Our Shared Story, and How His Father’s Transformation Led Him to Jesus 55:55

1M ago55:55

55:55

Howard Jolly has served as a pastor, musician, and leader among Indigenous churches across Canada for decades. Recently retired as Executive Director of the Indigenous Alliance Churches of Canada, Howard carries a deep passion for reconciliation within the Church and the renewal of Indigenous communities in Christ. In this conversation, Howard shar…

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EPS 225: PROPHETIC WARNING: "Decree & Declare" Deception; Law of Attraction Incantations 8:08

1M ago8:08

8:08

The overzealous charismatic community often embraces the law of attraction incantations, unintentionally and intentionally! Sadly, "decree and declare" statements are twisted, and many believe that speaking positive affirmations into existence can manifest desired outcomes. Is this practice truly biblical, or does it lead Christians down a dangerou…

1
Nietzsche Made Us Doubt the Moon Landing 22:19

2M ago22:19

22:19

Derek's friend doesn't believe in the moon landing. Andy explains that modern-day conspiracy theories rooted in the Three Horsemen of the Hermeneutics of Suspicion: Nietzsche, Freud, and Marx. It surprisingly has a lot to do with ministry in a Secular Age. Our call-in line is open! Call us at (612) 405-8071 to leave a question for a future episode!…

1
Lissa Wray Beal on Why Pastors Need the Old Testament, Faithfully Preaching Trauma Texts, and the Role of Seminary in a Changing Church 55:03

2M ago55:03

55:03

The Old Testament can feel daunting to preach, but it’s an essential part of the story we’re called to tell. Many pastors avoid preaching texts of violence, trauma, and grief but what if these difficult texts are exactly what our churches need to hear? In this conversation, Old Testament scholar and Anglican priest Dr. Lissa Wray Beal offers a thou…

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Matthew Price on Learning to Love the Suburbs, Leading Post-Burnout, and Church Revitalization 52:22

2M ago52:22

52:22

In this episode, we welcome Matthew Price, Lead Pastor of North Langley Community Church, for a deeply personal conversation about pastoral ministry. Matthew opens up about his unexpected journey into preaching, the powerful influence of mentors like Darrell Johnson, and how a vision from God reshaped his love for suburban ministry. Matthew and Jas…

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EPS 224 - Is Deliverance without Healing and Ministering to the BrokenHearted, Effective? 6:03

2M ago6:03

6:03

Is deliverance enough? In any journey of spiritual freedom, deliverance is often viewed as a quick fix, but true liberation requires much more than a "quicky deliverance" session! It's essential to understand that while casting out demons is a vital step, it is not the end-all of the multi-layered and complicated process of releasing strongholds. H…

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Pradeepan Jeeva on Planting in a Post-Christian City, Pastoring Through Suffering, and Measuring Christian Discipleship 57:50

3M ago57:50

57:50

In today’s episode, Jason sits down with pastor and church planter Pradeepan Jeeva for a vulnerable conversation on calling, suffering, and leading a church where everyone can find their place. Pradeepan and his wife Amritha co-lead Kalos Church in Bellevue, Washington, a vibrant, multicultural community born out of a literal dream and built one ba…

1
Rebecca McLaughlin on the Timeless Wisdom of Christian Sexual Ethics, a Gospel-Shaped Vision of Singleness, and the Offence of the Gospel in a Post-Christian World 40:31

3M ago40:31

40:31

In a time when Christian sexual ethics are increasingly seen not just as outdated but as morally offensive, how can pastors lead with both clarity and compassion? In this conversation, author and apologist Rebecca McLaughlin engages with questions around Christian sexual ethics and makes a case for why the Christian story is ultimately good news fo…

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EPS 223 - PROPHETIC DREAM: Strawberry Moon, Witches, and Spiritual Warfare! 7:44

3M ago7:44

7:44

The Strawberry Moon (June 10-11) carries spiritual significance for witches and warlocks. The Lord is against all new moon celebrations; which are linked to witchcraft and idol worship. A prophetic dream revealed an enemy attack symbolized by eaten strawberries. God's message: "Our 'vineyard' is targeted without repentance!" This isn't about reject…

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R. Paul Stevens on Why Every Christian is in Full-Time Ministry, Embracing Whole-Life Discipleship, and Empowering the Whole Church for Kingdom Work 41:34

4M ago41:34

41:34

In this episode, Jason sits down with long-time pastor, professor, and marketplace theologian R. Paul Stevens to explore the sacredness of daily work. Paul’s ministry journey spans decades, from student ministry in Halifax to pastoring in Vancouver, teaching at Regent College, and even a mid-career stint as a carpenter. Paul unpacks the heartbeat b…

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EPS 222- PROPHETIC DREAMS: Nile River Demons; Gateway to Exposing Hidden Warfare 10:19

4M ago10:19

10:19

God speaks to us through prophetic dreams! He will use symbols, such as objects and animals, to reveal and expose the truth about the hidden gods of the world. Several deities: Sobek, Amon, Behemoth, and Khnum were revealed and associated with the Nile River in my dreams. Let's be clear, the Nile demonstrates God’s power and authority over Egypt an…

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Dustin Funk on the Importance of Camp Ministry, Local Church Renewal, and Annual Rhythms of Rest 42:50

4M ago42:50

42:50

In this episode, Jason sits down with Dustin Funk, Lead Pastor of Oasis Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Dustin shares his journey from encountering God at summer camp as a teenager, to stepping into leadership at a small Italian-speaking church, to guiding that same church through a remarkable season of cultural transition and growth. Dustin reflects…

1
Marriage, Kids, and Family in the Age of Authenticity 20:48

4M ago20:48

20:48

This week we dive into a listener question (thanks, Leanne!) about marriage, kids, and family life in the Age of Authenticity and how it's different now in this secular age. We unpack this along with what it means for the church. Andy's brand new book "Evangelism in an Age of Despair" is out now! You can grab it here or wherever else you get your b…

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EPS 221- Godly Men Stepping up in Marriage; HEALING & Getting Professional HELP! 24:15

4M ago24:15

24:15

Are you a godly man struggling with unspoken burdens, hiding behind fear, shame, or pride? Melia shares a deep conversation with her private client, who bravely sought help to address deep-seated spiritual issues impacting his 35-year marriage. A healing journey and powerful testament to the transformative power of seeking real help and embracing G…

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Preston Pouteaux on Pastoring with a Tender Heart, the Sacred Work of Neighbouring, and the Power of Presence in Pastoral Ministry 46:17

5M ago46:17

46:17

In today’s conversation Preston Pouteaux shares what it means to be a tenderhearted pastor in a fast-paced world. Speaking from Chestermere, Alberta, Preston invites us into a vision of pastoring that’s slow, rooted, and profoundly local. From RCMP ride-alongs to keeping bees and loving neighbours, Preston offers a poetic yet practical vision of wh…

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EPS 220 - PROPHETIC WARNING/DREAM: Execute the Fire of Judgement; Authority of the Right Hand! 14:29

5M ago14:29

14:29

A crucial prophetic warning and dream for the body of Christ! True power and authority stem from God's pure prophetic voices. In essence, His "chosen ones," entrusted with the ability to wield and exercise the fire of judgment with their right hand. They are authentic vessels who diligently work to purify themselves; I refer to them as Vertical Amb…

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EPS 219- Hidden Dangers of HSP's & the Allure of New Age Healing 11:24

5M ago11:24

11:24

A Highly Sensitive Person must be handled with gentleness and utmost care! The truth is, some HSPs are turning to the demonic side and not using their gifts to glorify God. In today's episode of, The Vertical Relationship Show, Melia dives into the hidden discoveries of a well-known HSP book and highlights the New Age healing recommendations from s…

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Steve Cuss on His Year as a Chaplain, The Gap Between What We Preach and What We Experience, and Leading Without Carrying the Anxiety of Others 58:37

5M ago58:37

58:37

What does it look like to stay tender and human as a pastor, even while holding the weight of others’ pain? In this rich and deeply practical conversation, Steve Cuss shares wisdom from decades of ministry—including his years as a hospital chaplain, a lead pastor, and now, a trusted voice equipping leaders around the world in managing leadership an…

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EPS 218- What it Takes to Become a TRUE PROPHET of God! 14:20

5M ago14:20

14:20

You received the call of a prophet... but know what? You step into the wilderness, while God cleans up every displeasing area in your life in His eyes. OUCH! God requires a pure vessel, not a broken one, to represent His truth with accuracy. The truth is nobody should desire this calling if they can't handle the crushing and warfare that coincides …

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Evangelism Isn't Wellness - Evangelism in an Age of Despair 15:39

5M ago15:39

15:39

Andy just released his new book, "Evangelism in an Age of Despair". In it, he makes a compelling case that evangelism isn’t wellness or therapy—it’s a radical, counter-cultural act. In this episode, Andy unpacks what that means and how it could transform your church’s approach to ministry. Andy's brand new book "Evangelism in an Age of Despair" is …

1
Canadian Pastors Joe Jung, Ben Carbone, and Jaz Ghag Share Their Stories 42:33

6M ago42:33

42:33

In this special episode of The Pastorate Podcast, we’re doing something a little different. Rather than one long-form conversation, you'll hear stories from three Canadian lead pastors. Representing the suburbs of BC, the heart of Quebec, and a small coastal town on the Pacific Ocean, these pastors—Joe Jung, Ben Carbone, and Jaz Ghag—open up about …

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EPS 217- PROPHETIC FEELERS: Is Laying your Hands on People Necessary for HEALING? 6:53

6M ago6:53

6:53

Is laying hands on others for healing always necessary, or even advisable? Many claim YES, and others say NO ... Without a doubt, if you carry a unique "feeler anointing," like me, you're going to want to tune into this powerful episode! Melia highlights the importance of discerning divine guidance from the Holy Spirit over societal pressures and p…

1
Reward Sibanda on How Culture Shapes Ministry, The Role of the Megachurch Today, and Fasting as a Means to Soul Rest 49:22

6M ago49:22

49:22

In this episode, Jason sits down with Reward Sibanda, a pastor, speaker, and writer, a leading voice on fasting and a Pastor at Saddleback Church. Reward is known for his contagious joy, his deep love for the church, and his ability to bridge cultural gaps in ministry. In this conversation, Jason and Reward explore: How different cultural perspecti…

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EPS 216- 3 Ways to TEST a Spirit of Religion over RELATIONSHIP with JESUS 11:47

6M ago11:47

11:47

Religion over Relationship? Feeling a disconnect between your outward religious activities and spiritual life? Many Christians are unaware they can be oppressed by a spirit of religion! Spirit of religion is characterized by outward righteousness – attending church and performing religious duties – without the corresponding inner transformation of …

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Five Star Funerals - Evangelism in an Age of Despair 18:54

6M ago18:54

18:54

Andy just published a brand new book, "Evangelism in an Age of Despair". It reminded Derek of his church's Google reviews and a woman who rated a funeral 5 stars. Andy thinks this is what evangelism is all about. Andy's brand new book is out now! You can grab it here or wherever else you get your books: bit.ly/41zuNIN…

1
Tyler Staton on the Redemption of Pain, Contextualizing Our Suffering Within the Story of Scripture, and Cultivating a Daily Desire to Experience the Power of the Holy Spirit 47:24

7M ago47:24

47:24

In this episode of The Pastorate, Jason sits down with Tyler Staton, lead pastor of Bridgetown Church and author of The Familiar Stranger, to explore how God works in seasons of suffering and renewal. Tyler shares candidly on how deep pain has shaped his understanding of faith, ministry, and the presence of God in everyday life. Tyler is known for …

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EPS 215- SPIRITUAL WARFARE: Understand Demonic Oppression vs. Possession as a Christian 12:35

7M ago12:35

12:35

As a Christian, you can be oppressed by a demon(s) but NOT possessed! Possession requires ownership. You must understand the effects of a wounded soul to grip this eye-opening reality! The enemy loves open doors. Therefore, desiring inner healing, deliverance, and understanding the pitfalls of spiritual warfare as a follower of Christ is vital. It'…

1
Claude Lainey on Ministry in Rural Canada, The Church’s Call to Raise Up the Next Generation of Church Leaders, and How Listening Prayer Inspires Courageous Leadership 47:52

7M ago47:52

47:52

Pastoring in rural Canada comes with unique challenges and opportunities—navigating leadership transitions, bilingual ministry, and the call to raise up the next generation of leaders. That’s why we need pastors who commit to remaining faithful over decades, seeking God’s guidance through seasons of change. In this episode we’re joined by Claude La…

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EPS 214: How to Discern the VOICE of GOD + Prayer 11:14

7M ago11:14

11:14

Do you desire to hear the voice of God? Join International & Best-Selling Author, Christian Counselor, and Prophetic Mentor Melia as she embraces the hard truth of discerning God's voice! Learn how to awaken your soul through the Holy Spirit; our teacher, advocate, and comforter, who serves as the third person of the Trinity. Your connection and ve…

1
Mark Sayers on Leadership and Suffering: A Theology of Resilience, Cultivating Spiritual Authority Over Charisma, and The Call of the Church in a Changing World 1:06:43

7M ago1:06:43

1:06:43

Our world is changing at a rapid pace, and for many, it’s hard to make sense of it all—let alone carry the weight of shifting expectations and uncertainty. That’s why we’re grateful for voices like Mark’s—leaders who cut through the noise with a prophetic edge, distill complex cultural trends, and speak to the Church with a non-anxious presence. To…

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EPS 213- Stop Putting GOD in a Box; SUPERNATURAL over Science & Human Reasoning 8:05

7M ago8:05

8:05

Are you going to believe the doctor's report? Is your "faith" in human reasoning or a supernatural God? In today's episode of The Vertical Relationship, Melia highlights the need for balance between acknowledging scientific evidence and embracing spiritual truths. She touches on how worldviews shape our culture and encourages listeners to seek Jesu…

1
The Election that Ended the Century 21:46

8M ago21:46

21:46

Andy thinks this recent election marked the end of the 20th century. Andy and Derek are joined by special guest Rev. David J. Wood to discuss what the election means for faith communities and how our rich tradition of faith & theology can shape our imaginations to lead congregations during these historic times.…

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EPS 212: PROPHETIC WARNING: Fires, Floods, & Famine; Worship of the Moon & Stars of Ancient gods 15:55

8M ago15:55

15:55

A prophetic warning for the nations: More fires, floods, plagues, weather disturbances, war, food shortages, sickness, and famine … Repentance is vital in this hour! To many Christians are worshipping ancient gods of the moon and stars. Why, you ask? Rebellion! No heart for true repentance! God's feed-up and He must do something. “For after all thi…

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EPS 211- PROPHETIC DREAM: Lilith Exposed in Family Bloodline; Generational Curse 16:13

8M ago16:13

16:13

Have you heard of the demon goddess, LILITH? Jewish mysticism believed it was a tale of Adam and Eve, but it's not. Lilith is mentioned in the Bible, and the deity has connections with early views on sorcery, witchcraft, magic, vampires, pregnancy, sexual dreams, and even feminism. Lilith is after God's chosen ones! Especially those in the womb. Me…

1
Megan Fate Marshman on Preaching with Integrity, Practical Prayer Rhythms, and Cultivating Hope in Longing 1:06:00

8M ago1:06:00

1:06:00

Preaching with authenticity is no easy task, but for Megan, authenticity is the only gear she knows. The question remains—how do we craft honest sermons and let the message impact our own lives first? Megan is a pastor, speaker, and author joining us from Lakewood, California. She serves as the teaching pastor at Willow Creek Community Church in Il…

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EPS 210- PROPHETIC DREAM; Mark Wahlberg Revealed; Celebrities and Faith: Genuine or Superficial? 14:26

8M ago14:26

14:26

Are Hollywood celebrities genuine or superficial? Let's take a critical look at Hollywood's superficial faith declarations, with a call for genuine repentance and discipleship. Does this mean everyone is Hollywood is inauthentic? The Lord will expose the heart! In this compelling segment, Melia shares a prophetic dream about Mark Wahlberg trying to…

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Andy Moore on God as the Faithful Redeemer, Pastoring a Century-Old Church, and Building Environments Where Emerging Leaders Can Thrive 54:44

8M ago54:44

54:44

It’s a New Year, and we’re thrilled to welcome you back to The Pastorate. As we step into 2025, we’re continuing our mission of creating meaningful conversations to equip and encourage pastors, starting with an episode we pray will strengthen both your hands and your heart for the work ahead. Our guest today is Andy Moore, Pastor of Coastline Churc…

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EPS 209- PROPHETIC WARNING: Open up Ancient Gates & Stop Worshipping other gods! 13:36

8M ago13:36

13:36

What are open gates? Are you worshipping other gods or our Creator? Melia takes a deep dive into Psalms 24:7-9, among many other Scripture verses for the nations. A heedful prophetic warning about the dangerous deities, false prophets, and leaders of this world that many are worshipping, intentionally and unintentionally. "Indeed, the Sovereign Lor…

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EPS 208- Unveiling the HIDDEN ROOTS of Acupuncture, Yoga & Chiropractic Care 11:19

9M ago11:19

11:19

Ancient Chinese practice or modern-day myth? Melia is exposing the hidden roots behind the three popular treatments recommended in the medical, health, and fitness fields. Learn about its controversial origins and the potential risks involved that can impact your health. Uncover the hidden roots behind Acupuncture, Yoga, and Chiropractic Care; and …

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Darrell Johnson on His Morning Rhythms, Praying the Psalms, and Reflections on His Personal Health 52:08

9M ago52:08

52:08

As we close out 2024, we’re excited to bring you a special episode to end the year. Last year, we began a tradition of hosting a conversation with Darrell Johnson near the end of each year, and it’s quickly become a meaningful rhythm for this podcast—a chance to sit down and reflect on life and ministry. Darrell has been preaching, teaching, and pa…

1
EPS 207- Ignorance is Not Bliss; JEZEBEL in Healing Ministries 5:23

9M ago5:23

5:23

Prophetic Warning: Not all healing ministries are safe! Melia shares a testimonial of volunteering and co-leading an event for a healing ministry, which brought unexpected challenges and demonic attacks. Melia shares a tidbit from her new audiobook, Fear Not, as she delves into the unsettling journey of a Jezebel spirit who was serving as a leader …

1
AJ Sherrill on Cultivating a Distinct Pastoral Voice, Slowing Down to Shepherd Well, and Rediscovering Christmas 45:56

9M ago45:56

45:56

A question many of us face this time of year is how to guide our congregations well through the Advent season. In the midst of pastoring others, some of us have been able to enter into the wonder of the season ourselves, some of us are navigating the busyness of planning and executing events and services, and others of us are walking through a deep…

1
EPS 206- Are Spiritual Problems always Demonic? 3:27

10M ago3:27

3:27

Are your problems always demonic? One of the key takeaways from this teaching on, The Vertical Relationship Show, is the distinction between demonic influences and the consequences of unhealthy decisions. In my book, Fear Not, I speak on the subject of healing, deliverance, and warfare; that not all problems stem from demonic activity. Yet pride, u…

1
Glenn Packiam on Navigating Expectations in Ministry, Drawing Strength from Ancient Wisdom, and Building Teams Rooted in Self-Awareness 43:44

10M ago43:44

43:44

Pastoring has always been a vocation of great responsibility, yet the expectations placed on pastors today have grown increasingly complex. From preaching and shepherding to being organizational leaders, cultural commentators, and trauma-informed counselors, the demands can stack up, making the work feel impossible. Add to this the challenge of nav…