Real Life With Pamela Lau

On this brief episode, I welcome Georgene Rice to the show to talk about her calling as a long-standing leader in our community and the upcoming Ignite Women's Conference. Georgene has been a talk show host with KPDQ for more than 30 years and has traveled internationally as a station correspondent. In 2003 Georgene served as the chief spokesman and debater for the Defense of Marriage Coalition, which successfully amended Oregon’s constitution. She has lectured on university campuses and is a frequent speaker and worship leader at Christian conferences and retreats. Georgene has served on several Boards and regularly volunteers for charitable organizations. A musician Georgene and husband Dan have traveled around the world teaching and performing Gospel music.

Welcome David Stidham to the show today! David serves as the VP of Business Affairs & General Counsel for The Chosen, Inc. Prior to working for The Chosen, he spent nearly 6 years as the General Counsel & Director of Licensing for RightNow Media, as well as 2 years working as an Assistant District Attorney in Dallas, TX. He holds a BBA and MBA from Harding University, a JD from New England Law Boston, and graduate certificate in Negotiation Mastery from the Harvard Business School Online. He and his family live in Denver, CO.

David was a delight to interview as we discuss how God prepared him for a dynamic career and calling in using his legal degrees. Raised in the Church, David found faith crucial in all he did and decided. Through stories and examples, David expresses how God led him through pivotal conversations, relationships and opportunities. David talks openly about his trajectory from business law and marketing to negotiating and finally law school.

After working as an assistant district attorney, David accepted a role at Right Now Media where he worked negotiating intellectual property.

What does it look like for an attorney who follows Jesus to work in the marketplace? David says what keeps him in the race is remaining faithful while making informed decisions. As a leader in his field, David talks about the path to saying yes to varied roles before becoming VP of business and legal counsel for The Chosen.

David talks openly about how his past experiences ultimately prepared him for each next step along the way. His leap of faith from district attorney to director of licensing at Right Now Media seemed right for him as he asked the CEO of the company, "How will you use my skills?"

Through relationships and an unexpected opportunity, David was offered a contract job at The Chosen. During our candid conversation, David demonstrates how humility covers him in the day to day of his life. Being a part of The Chosen has opened David's eyes to how they are doing things in a different way as a Christian television production company. Using his negotiation skills anew in this role, David admits that working Hollywood is testing his skill set like never before. Are people condescending because The Chosen is a Christian show? How is that communicated to David? What does it feel like to negotiate just to get to the table and convince others you belong there?

David calls forth followers of Christ to step into legal roles in various places--even the darker places: court rooms, dark secular places, even Hollywood. Finally, David shares how he keeps his faith alive and building through reading Scripture and prayer.

I hope you will enjoy this dynamic conversation with a leader in the legal realm who is listening well to his dreams and how the Spirit of God is leading him.

Welcome to the show Donna Johnson who is an entrepreneur who has been one of the most successful and highly respected professionals in direct marketing for decades. She received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for her profession. Her story (on stage or in her writing) has inspired millions through her new book, "My Mentor Walks on Water: Spirit-Led Mentorship in Every Area of Your Life. Donna and her husband, Thomas, reside between Wisconsin, Arizona and Sweden. They have six children and eight grandchildren. Their charity "Spirit Wings Kids funds orphanages in India and Africa along with a permaculture farm and soccer academy in Uganda.

In today's episode, DMetri and I cover the wide range of unspoken pressures young, emerging leaders face and what we can do to pay closer attention to one another and the Presence of God in our lives.  We talk about how even small children can learn to become leaders in simple ways as parents teach well.  How does one develop God-given self-confidence? What does that look like and how does a leader serve humbly?  How does God lead young and upcoming leaders when the path is unknown?  Even unplanned? We cover the hard conversation of the difficulties of being a person of color.  Why it's so important (profoundly so) for people of color to see representation at professional gatherings, on LinkedIn, in director positions. We talk about the power of seeing someone who looks like you, ahead of you in a position.  We dive deep into what culture is pressuring leaders to look and sound like.  What happens when you are called to lead but you don't want to be the loudest person in the room? When do you shut down the voices that shout, "Take Charge!"?  How is Jesus' example of being fully present to individuals a role for leaders?  How might the example of Moses whose hands were held up until the battle was won work for us in today's individualistic culture? Where does support come from for a leader? How does a supervisor show genuine support and how might a peer be supportive? When do family and friends need to step in?  What am I valuing as a Christian leader?  In order for an organization to flourish, one voice is valued but how do we value the institutional mission? What's the role of mission and vision while still maintaining value for the individual?  When an organization and an individual work together, it's a form of flourishing.  Why is struggling and suffering over important issues an opportunity for leaders to come to the table for clarity?  Why does "shutting down" the conversation back-fire? We end our conversation talking through how leaders can help keep going the most difficult conversations.  How might our perceived "failures" or the "failures" of leaders ahead of us teach us about what we can do differently?

I am delighted to interview Martin Eans on the show today! Marvin Eans is chair and assistant professor of graphic design at George Fox University in Newberg, Oregon. Marvin is an experienced and award-winning graphic designer and artist. His works are showcased in national and international exhibition spaces, and book cover designs are featured as New York Times Best Sellers for world-renowned Christian authors. Marvin is a passionate creative interested in research that involves the intersection between traditional and digital art formats and their impact on visual messaging. With a focus on impacting culture through design in a positive way,— Marvin's work engages people through a lens of empathy, hope, and unity.  We discuss all things creatives face when being called to lead, how parents of creative children can encourage the spirit of design while calling forth leadership qualities, what pressures Christian artists face in the designing world and how Jesus calls us to leadership that sets us apart--how do we handle that?  Why are we hesitant to say yes to leadership in Christian organizations? Where are the unrealistic expectations coming from?  How do we navigate feelings of letting God down when He is the one calling you to higher levels of leadership?  We cover how a godly leader sets priorities for their teams by prioritizing their spiritual lives, what does work/life balance look like in the marketplace compared to education?  What is the culture's expectation of us as leaders even in environments where we are asked to do projects against our values and beliefs? Our discussion takes a turn to the question of support for leaders--What do leaders need or even want when it comes to support? Why do we face so many barriers in asking for help? Leading in a design area as a college professor allows for flexibility to create stronger relationships with the next generation.  How is leading in the design industry a service? Meeting another's need? What does it look like to honor people? We talk about failing in our role and facing the reality by asking, "Who am I really working for?"  

What a treat to have Matt Heisler on my show this week!  Matt Heisler has been the Director of Ministry with Youth and their Families at Lake Grove Presbyterian Church since May 2021. He received his BA in Psychology at George Fox University (2011) and his Masters of Divinity at Princeton Theological Seminary (2021). Matt has several years of experience in leadership capacities, including youth ministry, compassion/outreach ministry, coffee shop management, and in behavioral rehabilitation with at-risk teens. In the coming years, he hopes to continue to come alongside young people and their families in their walk with Christ.   Matt has been married for nine years and has a young daughter.

In this episode we discuss meaningful work in working with at-risk kids who face looming challenges and how that learning experience developed leadership skills, knowing limits when you work with families, how parents model leadership to children who live in their home, how welcoming young people into leadership roles is paramount, what does the discernment process look like in the long haul, and how education does indeed provide preparation and support for future leadership.  We cover what spiritual direction groups can offer to up-and-coming leaders, mentors who support for the long haul, and saying yes to being in Bible study; what it costs as a young married man and parent.  We dive deep into how leaders are always following someone or something, why we are called to follow and called to lead, why is spiritual abuse so common in the church, leaders must seek accountability no matter how they evolve, when is accountability misplaced and what does wisdom teach us about vulnerability.  Where should support come from for leaders, what does a leader rely on for care, support, and friendship?  What does following God look like for a leader?

We discuss how systems within an organization can provide support for its leaders, what does the research show us about support/sense of belonging for our up and coming leaders, the importance of remembering someone's name creates a strong sense of belonging, institutional decline breeds the epidemic of loneliness, Springtime Research encourages steps for leaders to create belonging: Notice, Name and Know the people around you. All people need a deeper sense of being known.  We know when we don't have it.  We talk about institutional decline and are we working toward better, richer places of belonging since so much as has been pulled apart. Finally, we end our discussion of what it's like to follow Jesus when the presence of failure is looming over a leader's life. Is the Church a place for healthy leaders to not burn out?  What can happen to young leaders when burn out extinguishes the light?  We conclude that faithfulness in the long run is part of the answer, saying no, saying yes, moving out and doing the work of discernment.  Self care truly is detrimental.  Find a place you can worship, be in a small group without leading.  Find someone to follow, respect and want to be in 5-10 years.

Whatever it is you create, you can never get enough practical advice to keep you inspired.  Today's guest, Melanie Dobson, is an award-winning author of more than twenty historical romance, suspense and time-slip novels.  On today's show, Melanie talks candidly about the voices of doubt that can wreak destruction in our co-creations with God.  Even if you are creating a bridge, a book, a painting, a garden, a design, a new room, or a friendship, creating is a form of worship.  Listen in as we talk about ways to keep the creative juices flowing in your life, work, and relationship with God.  Five of Melanie's novels have won Carol Awards. Catching the Wind was nominated for a Christy Award in the historical fiction category and won an Audie Award in the inspirational fiction category; and The Black Cloister won the Foreword magazine Religious Fiction Book of the Year. Melanie is the former corporate publicity manager at Focus on the Family and owner of the publicity firm Dobson Media Group. When she isn't writing, Melanie enjoys teaching both writing and public relations classes. Melanie and her husband, Jon, have two daughters and live near Portland, Oregon.

Welcome Shannon Farrouge to the podcast!  Today we talk about the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives by asking some difficult questions about mental health, isolation, confession of sin, and Scripture. How do we know when it's time to get the help we need from a counselor? When does The Counselor speak through other counselors? Shannon is a licensed professional counselor in Portland, Oregon. She graduated from Western Seminary in Portland Oregon and is the founder of Pristine Counseling LLC Building Identity On Lasting Truth. At Pristine Counseling she works with families, children and adults in the areas of divorce after care, abuse and trauma. She feels blessed everyday for the opportunity to be raising her three boys alongside her caring husband near the Columbia River Gorge.

Join me in welcoming Dr. Sarah Baldwin on Real Life with Pamela Lau as we have a powerful conversation about spiritual growth and discerning the Voice of the Holy Spirit.  Sarah opens up about her story from Brokenness to Belovedness! She talks about how her spiritual flourishing took time to grow.  Packed with practical insight, our conversation covers how she sees the Holy Spirit pursuing younger Christians in unique ways today.  We grapple with questions around discerning the voices of spiritually mature discipleship.  What does discernment look like? What is the Voice of the Holy Spirit and the voice of the deceiver? Listen as Sarah compares the voice of Conviction to the voice of condemnation.  

Welcome to the show, Dr. Melissa Winfield!  Melissa and I engage in an intimate conversation about an influential woman in both our lives: Janette Stoltzfus.  Janette was a close friend of mine but more important, Melissa's mom.  Janette lived out a powerful life of faith while battling bone cancer for more than 7 years before her death in November 2015.  

Melissa Winfield is a clinical psychologist in private practice. She received her doctorate in clinical psychology from George Fox University. Melissa loves serving with her church's youth ministry and Center for Racial Reconciliation. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, hiking and camping. She lives with her husband, Paul, near Pasadena, CA.

Welcome Avery Betz to Real Life with Pamela Lau!  Avery's faith journey from being raised as a Jehovah's Witness to finding Jesus is a powerful story.  

Avery Betz is from Tigard, Oregon. He's currently a freshman nursing major at George Fox University. He likes playing board games and tennis. Here's what he says about himself: I'm a big star wars fan, and love to nerd out about Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, or books. I really enjoy being in nature and hiking, since it helps my mind calm down. I also love music. I play guitar and clarinet, and listen to music as much as I can. My favorite bands are Arctic Monkeys and Lord Huron. My hope is there's something in my faith journey that helps others to grow closer to God. I feel truly blessed for the chance to share that with others, and blessed for God's guiding hand in my life.

Connor Knapp, 24, is a current graduate student studying Higher Education at Wheaton College in Illinois right outside of Chicago. Some of his favorite things are taking naps, practicing hospitality, and petting dogs. Connor likes coffee but thinks that tea is underrated. A lover of weird and quirky humor, Connor loves to make people laugh and make the world a little bit of a brighter place one person at a time.

My name is Lauren Smith and I am a current student at California Baptist University. I was born and raised in San Diego, California, and am blessed to have received a Christian education for most of my life. While I grew up in the church and was surrounded by a faith-based community, I became grounded in my spiritual life and beliefs when God called me out of my comfort zone to lead a Christian Club during my two years at my local public high school. This time allowed me to genuinely appreciate a God-fearing community of friends and educators, ultimately leading me to pursue a bachelor's at California Baptist University. My passion for leadership, business, and serving others is what inspired my decision to major in Healthcare Administration. As you listen to this podcast, I hope you are inspired to see how inevitable doubts, whether in self or faith, are opportunities for the Lord to build your confidence in Him and the purpose He has called you.

Welcome Annalise Lau to the show today!  Annalise recently graduated from Azusa Pacific University with an undergraduate degree in allied health.  Annalise loves to play sports, loves to run and she's an extraordinary cook!  I can attest to her culinary skills since she is my daughter!  As a young woman committed to her faith, she exudes a vibrant relationship with Jesus to all who know and love her! Currently, Annalise works as a scribe and medical assistant for Southwest Family Physicians and plans to start PA school in 2021! 

In my latest podcast, I've invited Dr. Adrienne Ochs and Dr. Linda Wagner, two outstanding educators who are also trusted friends, to hold a difficult conversation on cross-racial friendship.  Adrienne and I have been close friends for more than 13 years and it's through our relationship that we talk openly about our deep friendship, different experiences and shared determination about practical ways we both want to further social/racial justice in the Church and society.  I've asked Linda to serve as our moderator for this podcast as we explore the benefits and even the difficulties of being from different races.  I've also uploaded our Zoom conversation onto Vimeo.  

Welcome Drake Dawson to the show today!  Drake is a recent graduate of George Fox University who currently works as a nuclear scientist.  His love for the Lord has led him to join a monastic order to learn the ancient practices of Christianity.  His favorite pastimes are cycling, Classical piano and adventuring outdoors.  

On today’s podcast, Rob Westervelt and I interview millennial Morgan Buhrow who offers us her view on the Bible and sexuality.  Morgan is a 25-year-old young woman who was born and raised in Oregon.  She currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina.  A graduate of Liberty University, she testifies to cultivating her own faith even though she was raised in a strong faith-filled family.  Morgan works in corporate America by day and leads a small group of 20 women in Bible study by night. She loves each one of her roles as a culture-influencing Millennial!  Get ready for a great listen as we hit the ground running on why she believes the Bible’s teaching on sexuality.  Be sure to share this with your friends and community! Join in our conversations by leaving comments.

Dominic Done, Pastor of Westside a Jesus Church and colleague of Pam's, joins her on the podcast to talk about when faith fails and how doubt can paralyze when in reality, doubt is not the end but just the beginning of a faith we haven't had before.  Dominic has written his first book, When Faith Fails, where he shares his own personal journey of failing faith while he was a doctoral student in England.  Diving deep to find out what the Atheists had to say, Pastor Done discovered a renewed energy in his faith as he deconstructed their arguments and found them wanting.  If you are moved by this conversation with Pastor Dominic Done, you can hear him preach here https://westsideajc.org/ or read his book.

 Connect with Pam at her website: PamelaLau.com Instagram: @Pamelahaveylau Facebook: @PamelaHaveyLau 

If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to leave a review.

In this podcast, two young twenty-something men talk about how their strong sense of "self" and calling to leadership are developing through different influences. Their parents introduced them to religion in their formative years; however, the choice to commit to their faith transpired through environmental factors, a need for identity, and a desire to serve.  During our conversation, Lane and Josh disclose the surprising factors that bond them to Christianity, the Church, and a closer relationship with Jesus--but is it possible for them to lose what they now have? Is the Church anticipating the needs of the Millennial generation?

 On this week’s podcast, Millennials Thomas and Emily Call talk about their faith journeys as they navigate what “Going to Church” means for them. Thomas reflects on how his Christian community has changed since high school and Emily shares how the Instagram world of Church just doesn’t get to the depth of relationship she longs for with other Jesus followers.

I'm so excited to have Joe Thouvenel join Rob Westervelt and myself for this podcast on how faith engagement has changed with young adults.  In this conversation, Joe suggests that youth and young adults need to see and hear their parents, teachers, pastors and guides question their own faith and journey: others need to learn about the joys and challenges in the every day life of a Believer.  We unpack how post modernism is a gift in helping us deconstruct but now it's time to reconstruct faith.  How does that look?  As a people who follow Jesus, are we having the conversations our youth want to have about the faith, calling, and purpose? 

In this podcast, Rob Westervelt and discuss the challenges facing the Church as younger Christians are hearing that the Gospel is "Jesus PLUS our ability to be perfect."  How could we as Christians and those who lead the Church recreate the wheel when we talk about matters of faith, the Gospel, and the importance of the ancient Scriptures? Are we afraid to step up and speak out when others disagree with us on these issues?  What is our responsibility in taking Jesus' vision to bring the Kingdom of God to earth when we disagree with others? How do we combat the fear we each feel so deeply when it comes to conflict in relation to our faith?  I conclude the podcast with 6 Ways our faith pleases God.