The Best Teachers are Always Learning

For years, I spent the bulk of my free time volunteering at my progressive, social justice-oriented church. It felt so good.

I learned so much…about myself and about this world in which I was a part.

I was surrounded by mostly retired people who nurtured and mentored me. I benefited from their wisdom and encouragement.

I eventually grew envious of their ability to spend their retirement pouring into social justice and caring for the wider community.

Something inside me said, “You don’t have to wait until you retire!” 🫨 🔥

I stopped being envious. I became my own version of what they modeled for me.

I already had a master’s degree, and I earned another – this time in Leadership Studies from a theological seminary. Then I leaned into the joy and privilege of pouring into social justice and caring for the wider community.

Next thing you know, I became an ordained community minister. 🧡

It was never on my “list of goals”; it was an organic, natural consequence of “walking the talk”.

It’s not who I am, it is 𝗛𝗼𝘄 I am.

I develop leaders, lead organizational innovation, and lean into strategic partnerships to implement data-informed solutions.

That might sound boring to some, but it feels marvelous to me ✨

My 𝗛𝗼𝘄 is people-centric, heart-centered, and strategically holistic.

In organizations, results matter. My leadership style is influenced by my lived experience that…how we get the results matter just as much as the results. The best results and deep change occur when stakeholders feel heard, appreciated, and like they belong.

I’ve attended many leadership and supervisory training courses that taught 𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘺𝘦𝘦𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦. Yet, as a community minister, I don’t know how not to care. 🤷🏽‍♀️

I have found that when others believe you sincerely have their best interest, not only are they easier to lead, serve, and support - they go out of their way to perform, be transparent, and achieve.

Some of my favorite reasons for 'getting out of the house' are (1) social justice-oriented church activities or (2) networking events. Another thing that's hard to resist is anything related to (3) professional development. I love conferences, workshops, and retreats!

In short, when I’m not helping organizations, communities, or individuals thrive and grow – I’m growing and learning, myself.

They say that the best teachers are always learning.

I’m a teacher at heart, which is why I enjoy preaching, facilitating, and training.

The theme is the same: Teaching + Leading 🧡

This is fascinating, because one of my favorite things about teaching…is learning from my students and colleagues and also learning during the process of preparing to teach something.

Phil Collins said, “In learning, you will teach, and in teaching you learn.”

It’s true. And I love every second of it.

What is true for you?

In what ways does your 𝗛𝗼𝘄 align with 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 you do and 𝗪𝗵𝗼 you are?

If there is no alignment, is this something you want to change?

If you want to change this, what three steps might you take towards this change; starting now?

(not January 1st 😇). 

V͢i͢d͢e͢o͢ ͢C͢r͢e͢d͢i͢t͢s͢: December 21st at Paint Branch UU Church. Me about to give an encouraging reflection on 'Winter Solstice & Renewal'.

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🪻As a clinical sociologist, I facilitate organizational effectiveness and learning culture. I lead data-informed solutions and change management interventions. I provide leadership development, facilitation, keynote speaking, and consulting for continuous improvement that drives strategy, collaboration, and mission driven priorities.

I believe in bold, authentic, and transformative people-centric leadership. From this lens, I prioritize equity and collective wisdom to engage others. Innovation, inclusivity, and creativity are my superpowers. Growth is my mindset. 

If you’re ready to overcome organizational challenges and retain your people or engage your members, DM me, I’d love to connect. 💞.