Chasing Elephants Podcast Student Leadership University, Jeff Wallace, Brent Crowe

On this latest episode of the Chasing Elephants Podcast, listen to special guest Edward Graham live from our SLU 201 conference teach us how to Change the World.

Join us as Derwin Gray dives into the historical origins and modern misappropriations of the term "woke," underscores the importance of racial reconciliation through the love of Jesus, and shares personal stories of transformation and faith. Tune in for a compelling discussion on mercy, understanding, and the church’s role in healing racial divides.

Bethany Barr Phillips delves into the concept of leading through the lens of an artist. She begins by exploring what it means to be an artist, which involves conceptualizing and expressing emotion and imagination, as well as innovating, shifting, dreaming, and taking risks. Phillips posits that the ultimate artist is God, in whose image humans are created, allowing art to reside within every individual.

Bethany identifies fear of failure and rejection as significant barriers to adopting an artist's perspective. Using David's confrontation with Goliath, she illustrates the importance of leading in new ways without fear. She differentiates between the fear of failure and the fear of rejection, explaining that rejection stems from a fear of not being accepted.

Throughout the episode, Phillips shares her personal journey from growing up in South Mississippi to becoming a worship leader. She highlights moments that shaped her identity and journey in life and even recounts a personal story about her chickens, linking it to risk-taking and leadership.

Bethany encourages the audience to reflect on what it means to be an artist, identify what may hinder them from embracing an artistic perspective, and consider how they can lead creatively and innovatively. She advocates for pioneering through the lens of an artist, drawing inspiration from biblical figures like Moses and the three boys in the fire.

Phillips enumerates characteristics of a pioneer and stresses the importance of collaboration, referencing the diversity of Jesus' disciples. She urges leaders to overcome fear and rejection, using the example of the Wright brothers as unconventional pioneers who successfully built an airplane.

In conclusion, Phillips introduces the "three P's" for leading as an artist: pioneer, persevere, and pivot. She discusses the significance of maintaining core messages while being willing to adjust methods as needed. Using biblical examples like Noah and Ruth, she reiterates the importance of obedience and pioneering.

The episode ends with a heartfelt prayer by Bethany, expressing gratitude to God, seeking guidance on leading artistically, and asking for the grace to persevere and partner with others.

Today we are honored to have two living legends with us: Pat Williams, renowned sports executive and author, and Dr. Jay Strack, the visionary behind Student Leadership University. In this episode, we dive into the essence of leadership, discussing the importance of setting goals, the power of reading, and the significance of nurturing meaningful relationships.

We'll explore Pat's fascinating journey from college catcher to prominent leadership roles in major sports franchises, and hear Jay's invaluable insights on serving others and overcoming spiritual battles. Together, they underline the value of self-discipline, faithfulness, and vision in forging a successful path. Plus, we'll touch on some light-hearted moments, including a funny discussion on WWE wrestling!

Tune in as we uncover their wisdom on prioritizing spiritual growth, leading with integrity, and the transformative power of helping the next generation succeed. This episode is filled with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a profound emphasis on living a purpose-driven life. So, get ready to be inspired by these remarkable leaders and the timeless lessons they share.

We have an extraordinary guest with us: martial artist, stunt expert, and former world champion skater, James Lee. In this captivating episode, James takes us behind the scenes of his impressive career, including unforgettable moments working on iconic films like "Blade" and "Lethal Weapon 4."

We'll explore his thrilling experiences on set with stars like Wesley Snipes and Mel Gibson, hear about the jaw-dropping stunts that pushed him to his limits, and gain insights into the evolving landscape of the film industry. James also opens up about his personal journey—his early exposure to martial arts, his battles in world championships, and the spiritual awakening that reshaped his approach to Hollywood.

Moreover, James shares valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers and actors, emphasizing the importance of creating your own content and staying true to your faith and values. We'll also touch on his current work in youth ministry and collaboration with renowned fight choreographer Ryan Watson. This episode is packed with inspiring stories and practical wisdom, so stay tuned as we dive deep into the life and career of the incredible James Lee.

In this episode of the SLU Podcast, titled "Jeff Solo.MP3," host Jeff Wallace delves into the historical significance and celebration of Juneteenth. Jeff begins by explaining that his co-host, Brent, is busy creating content for their Wonderbox project, and thus, Jeff is taking over the episode.

Jeff provides a comprehensive overview of Juneteenth, tracing its origins to the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, which freed over 3 million enslaved people in Confederate states. However, it took two years for this news to reach the African Americans enslaved in Texas, finally being delivered on June 19, 1865, by Union General Gordon Granger.

The podcast describes the initial celebrations in Texas, which involved prayer, feasts, singing, and dancing—a tradition that spread to other states and continues to this day. Jeff discusses various facts about Juneteenth, including its different names (Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, and Emancipation Day), the establishment of Emancipation Park in Houston, and how the celebration evolved over time, including its decline during the Jim Crow era and later revitalization during the Civil Rights Movement.

Jeff also highlights the significance of Juneteenth becoming a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, marking the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in 1983.

Throughout, Jeff emphasizes the importance of educating people about Juneteenth's history and continuing the tradition of celebration. He concludes by encouraging listeners to follow him and Brent on social media and to keep their ministry in prayers as they prepare for the SLU 101-301 summer programs.