In this episode of Coming Home, host Nathaniel Perez sits down with Jua Robinson, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Boston Collaborative. Jua’s work lives at the intersection of faith, civic leadership, and community transformation. From helping lead a multi-ethnic church representing more than twenty countries to building partnerships across Boston’s civic, nonprofit, and faith communities, his career has been shaped by a deep commitment to justice, collaboration, and people. Jua also serves as chaplain for the New England Patriots, working alongside players on wellness and social justice initiatives. In this conversation, he reflects on leadership across different spaces—from churches and nonprofits to professional sports—and what it takes to cultivate trust, belonging, and purpose in complex systems. Episode Highlights 00:00 — Welcome to Coming HomeHost Nathaniel Perez introduces Jua Robinson and the work of the Boston Collaborative. 02:10 — From Pastoral Ministry to Civic LeadershipJua shares how his journey in ministry led him toward broader community leadership and collaboration across Boston. 06:45 — Founding the Boston CollaborativeWhy the organization was created and the problem it seeks to address through partnerships across sectors. 12:30 — Working at the Intersection of Faith and Public LifeWhat Jua has learned about navigating institutions, systems, and relationships while pursuing justice and transformation. 18:40 — Serving as Chaplain for the New England PatriotsBehind the scenes of providing care, guidance, and perspective within the culture of professional sports. 25:15 — Leadership, Pressure, and Personal FormationWhat high-pressure environments reveal about character, responsibility, and resilience. 31:30 — Investing in the Next Generation of LeadersWhy mentorship and formation matter in shaping leaders who pursue both excellence and impact. 36:45 — What Leaders Need Most TodayJua reflects on integrity, humility, and hope as essential qualities for leadership today. 41:30 — Final ReflectionsClosing thoughts on faith, calling, and building communities where people can truly flourish. About the Guest Jua Robinson is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Boston Collaborative, an organization dedicated to strengthening leadership and partnerships across Boston’s civic, nonprofit, and faith communities. He previously co-founded Heart Change Fellowship, a multi-ethnic church in Jamaica Plain representing 23 countries. Jua also serves as chaplain for the New England Patriots and contributes to the organization’s player wellness and social justice initiatives. In addition, he serves on several boards including Boston Flourish, Vision New England, and the Massachusetts Society to Aid Discharged Prisoners. About Coming Home Coming Home is a podcast from Gordon College that features conversations with leaders, alumni, and changemakers whose work is shaping communities, institutions, and culture. Through thoughtful dialogue, the show explores vocation, leadership, and the deeper questions that guide our work and lives.
