The Ignite Institute : CHANGE HAPPENS NOW!

The Ignite Institute : CHANGE HAPPENS NOW
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Change Happens Now is a podcast dedicated to conversations and practices exploring wisdom based leadership. Wisdom-based Leadership is an approach that seeks to cultivate transformation at the intersections of spirituality, justice, and social innovation. In each episode, we feature guests from across industries who will share stories, insights, practices, and tools that will prepare and empower aspiring and emerging leaders to enact social change in their personal lives, communities, and in the organizations they serve. SUBSCRIBE : ignite.psr.edu

  1. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Reverend Dr. Dorsey Odell Blake

    JUN 18

    Honoring the Life and Legacy of Reverend Dr. Dorsey Odell Blake

    In this deeply moving Season 7 finale episode, we honor the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Dorsey Odell Blake, beloved faculty member, mentor, tireless advocate for justice, and prophetic voice in the Pacific School of Religion (PSR) community and beyond, who passed away in March 2025. Dr. Blake first came to PSR in 1968, during a time of national upheaval that he often compared to our own. Inspired by personal encounters with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other Civil Rights leaders, he pursued a theological education rooted in justice, compassion, and community. After graduating in 1971, he remained deeply connected to PSR, through transformative teaching that spanned more than five decades, serving as Professor of Leadership and Social Transformation at Pacific School of Religion (PSR) as well as Dean of the Faculty at Starr King School for Ministry and pastor at The Church for the Fellowship of All Peoples, founded by his mentor, Dr. Howard Thurman.  We celebrate his lasting impact through the voices of community members who share personal reflections and memories of Dr. Blake, exploring the divine synchronicity that brought him into their lives and the profound impact he had on theological education and social justice movements. The episode closes with a powerful question to each guest: What action will you take in the world because of Dr. Blake's friendship, ministry, and justice work? Their answers reflect the enduring call to carry forward his legacy, one rooted in love, integrity, and fierce commitment to justice. Featured Voices: Rev. Dr. David Vásquez-Levy – President of PSR, shares how Dr. Blake became a mentor and colleague who shaped the vision of theological education through both word and action, including the anonymous co-creation of a visionary pamphlet on communal learning.Rev. Janet Wolf – Reflects on her partnership with Dr. Blake in the Freedom Seminary and his commitment to children-centered theology and nonviolent social change through the National Council of Elders.Dr. Leonard McMahon – Honors Dr. Blake’s unwavering encouragement of students, his courageous vulnerability, and his mentorship during doctoral studies.Dr. Jim Lawrence – Speaks to Dr. Blake’s embodiment of the spiritual legacy of Howard Thurman and his powerful preaching ministry that bridged intellect and soul.Rev. Elena Rose Vera – Shares her experience as a student and spiritual daughter of Dr. Blake, lifting up his humility, deep integrity, and transformative support during her journey as a trans woman of color in ministry.In Loving Memory: Rev. Dr. Dorsey Odell Blake 1946 – 2025 "Well done, good and faithful servant." To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

    45 min
  2. The Future of Mentorship for Emerging Leaders of Color

    12/11/2024

    The Future of Mentorship for Emerging Leaders of Color

    In this inspiring episode, we continue our exploration of Kwaray’s development by welcoming a dynamic and deeply knowledgeable voice: Tiffany Bluhm, Executive Director of PAX—an organization dedicated to mentoring and vocational development for emerging Christians of color—and a contributor to Kwaray. With over 16 years in ministry and nonprofit leadership, Tiffany’s insights blend practical wisdom, historical context, and a profound appreciation for cultural identity’s role in spiritual growth. In this conversation, she highlights the critical need for mentorship within Christian communities of color, illustrating how this historically underserved population often lacks the guidance necessary to develop robust leadership pipelines. We hear how cultural identity is not a hindrance but a divine gift, and that embracing heritage dismantles internalized narratives of deficiency, allowing leaders of color to confidently step into their callings. Contemplative activism becomes central to Tiffany’s vision, as she explains that sustained engagement in community work and leadership development is grounded in practices of peace, justice, and spiritual rootedness. Tiffany’s own scholarship, as reflected in her sixth book, The Women We’ve Been Waiting For, provides new lenses through which to view scriptural and historical narratives, re-centering women of color as essential contributors rather than marginal figures. The result is a dynamic, collective vision where empowered leaders integrate their cultural identities, spiritual practices, and communal learning to transform faith communities from within. Join us as we learn from Tiffany Bloom’s deep well of experience and passion, and discover how a multi-layered approach to mentorship, identity, and faith can shape a future where everyone’s story is honored and every leader is equipped to thrive. This episode offers valuable insight for anyone seeking mentorship, resources, and empowerment to step fully into their cultural and spiritual identity and build inclusive communities that flourish. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

    25 min
  3. Wisdom-Based Leadership: Cultivating a Garden of Growth

    11/06/2024

    Wisdom-Based Leadership: Cultivating a Garden of Growth

    In this episode, we sat down with Jonathon Murillo, our Director of Content and Strategy at Ignite Institute at PSR. Jonathon introduces the concept of a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) world and the need for a new way to lead, which led to the development of Ignite's hallmark program, Wisdom-Based Leadership. He shares how this leadership framework goes beyond traditional corporate tools and methods, and integrates personal formation and skill development, with its competencies of creative communication, courageous collaboration, and contemplative care. We hear about the positive changes observed in leaders trained in wisdom-based leadership and the importance of honoring marginalized experiences and spiritual traditions. He also highlights the need for a platform to continue equipping and supporting rising faith leaders in these areas, and how Kwaray meets that need, providing a global, digital room for collective wisdom and continuous formation and skill development, where leaders can find affirmation and support. This episode provides inspiration and a direct path for leaders looking for a community where the collective wisdom of its members can emerge and support each other's growth. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

    33 min
  4. Community-Based Learning: The Evolution of Education and Formation

    10/09/2024

    Community-Based Learning: The Evolution of Education and Formation

    In this episode, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Cindy Liu, a visionary strategist dedicated to redefining the future of education through Kwaray, a groundbreaking community-based learning platform. Cindy takes us on her journey, sharing insights on why fostering a sense of community is essential for transformative education and personal growth and how Kwaray’s unique model is setting itself apart from traditional learning environments, offering a space for rising faith leaders leaders to not only gain knowledge but to actively build community, nurture spiritual growth, and drive social impact. She provides a thoughtful analysis of the current cultural climate, discussing how Kwaray equips faith leaders and changemakers to tackle division and foster unity within their communities. Whether you’re a leader, educator, or someone passionate about personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights into how education can go beyond traditional learning, integrating spirituality, purpose, and community.  Join us for a conversation that explores the intersection of faith, learning, and social impact, and discover how you can play a role in shaping a more just and connected world. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

    35 min
  5. Breaking Barriers: How Kwaray is Reimagining the Future of Theological Education

    09/12/2024

    Breaking Barriers: How Kwaray is Reimagining the Future of Theological Education

    Rev. Dr. David Vásquez-Levy, President of Pacific School of Religion, discusses the origin story of Kwaray, a new community-based learning platform dedicated to equipping rising faith leaders as they navigate an era of profound spiritual and cultural upheaval. Kwaray aims to address the pressing needs of accessible theological education and challenge the notion of excellence by exclusion in higher education. It seeks to create an inclusive space for learning and engaging questions of meaning, society, and spirituality and is built on a distributed network that allows for diverse voices and perspectives to contribute and learn together. This episode offers valuable insights on a direct and accessible pathway toward more transformational education, one place to find your community, to discover your purpose, and take action! To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

    34 min
  6. Blueprints for Change: Redefining Architecture through Justice, Equity, and Community

    08/21/2024

    Blueprints for Change: Redefining Architecture through Justice, Equity, and Community

    As the first female principals at Bora Architecture, Amy Donohoe and Jeanie Lai champion justice-oriented design, making educational spaces innovative, inclusive, and inspirational. They sat down with us to talk about their personal and professional journeys and the importance of design justice, equity, and community engagement in architecture. We hear about the challenges of a male-dominated industry, the historical lack of diversity in architecture, the importance of recognizing and addressing biases in design, and creating inclusive spaces that prioritize the needs of both staff and clients. They highlight the transformative power of critical race theory in shaping their design process and creating more inclusive spaces as well as the challenges of letting go of control as designers. We also hear examples of projects that have pushed the boundaries of traditional architecture and involved the community in decision-making. This episode offers inspiration on centering community members' experiences to create spaces that promote collaboration, engagement, and interconnectedness.  To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

    57 min
  7. Pursuing Reconciliation Through Bravery and Action

    06/05/2024

    Pursuing Reconciliation Through Bravery and Action

    In this inspiring episode, we welcome Rev. Dr. Brenda Salter McNeil, a pastor, dynamic speaker, award-winning author, professor, and thought leader. Dr. Salter McNeil is recognized internationally as one of the foremost leaders of reconciliation and was featured as one of the 50 most influential women to watch by Christianity Today in 2012. A trailblazer with a loving and prophetic approach, her mission is to inspire and empower emerging Christian leaders to practice reconciliation in their communities. She talks with us about the crucial need for bravery and action in the pursuit of justice, the pivotal role young people play in advocating for change, and the church's responsibility to commit to reconciliation through concrete actions. We learn about her faith journey and gain valuable insights on decolonizing our minds. She underscores the need for building diverse coalitions, practicing self-care, and finding supportive communities to sustain this work. Additionally, she talks about her experiences at Quest Church, where every member is valued and contributes to the community's journey towards affirming the image of God in all human beings. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of reconciliation, and discover how you can contribute to this vital work in your own sphere of influence. Dr. Salter McNeil serves as an Associate Professor of Reconciliation Studies at the School of Theology, Seattle Pacific University, where she directs the Reconciliation Studies program. She is the author of the newly released book, Empowered to Repair: Becoming People Who Mend Broken Systems and Heal Our Communities, as well as Becoming Brave: Finding the Courage to Pursue Racial Justice Now, Roadmap to Reconciliation, Roadmap to Reconciliation 2.0, and A Credible Witness. She is also the coauthor of The Heart of Racial Justice. To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

    46 min
  8. Black Space: Cultivating Identity and Community in Education

    05/08/2024

    Black Space: Cultivating Identity and Community in Education

    In this conversation, we sat down with Lauren Snelling and Dori King to discuss their experiences as parents and educators and the importance of storytelling in their respective fields. Lauren is child trauma psychotherapist/counselor, committed to disrupting systems in an effort to support Black children, and Dori is a children's picture book writer, educator, and mindfulness practitioner. We learn about their experiences in creating spaces for Black children to explore their identities, the challenges they face in predominantly white institutions, and the need for agency and leadership among young people. They also touch on the joys and challenges of raising their own Black boys and how it informs their work. The importance of self-care and finding sustainable practices to thrive in the education system is also shared. This episode highlights the power of community, the importance of self-reflection, and the need for representation and affirmation for Black children.  To get more content like this and learn more about ignite and PSR go to psr.edu.

    56 min
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About

Change Happens Now is a podcast dedicated to conversations and practices exploring wisdom based leadership. Wisdom-based Leadership is an approach that seeks to cultivate transformation at the intersections of spirituality, justice, and social innovation. In each episode, we feature guests from across industries who will share stories, insights, practices, and tools that will prepare and empower aspiring and emerging leaders to enact social change in their personal lives, communities, and in the organizations they serve. SUBSCRIBE : ignite.psr.edu

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