Above The Noise

Phil Washington's voyage from the challenging streets of Chicago's South Side to the heights of transportation industry leadership is a narrative that resonates with the power of transformation. In a candid conversation, he shares the profound influence his family had in steering his life towards a purpose greater than he could have imagined. From the pivotal moment that rerouted his life's direction in the military to the serendipitous leap into the transportation arena, Phil's story is a masterclass in seizing life's unexpected opportunities and the profound impact of spiritual grounding. His reflections on situational leadership and the practice of empathy within authority come to light, offering invaluable insights for anyone seeking to lead with heart and strength. His principles, such as "proceed until apprehended," provide a framework for navigating the complexities of organizational trust and the art of managing disappointments. Phil's success is a poignant testament to the enduring power of a mother's prayers and the spiritual inheritance that transcends material success. #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Have you ever been in a setting where the lines between faith, race, and identity become blurred? As a person of color navigating various professional terrains—I share honest reflections on representation and integrity, and how economic decisions ripple through marginalized communities. Dr. Sims and I confront the difficulties of racial tensions within the church, advocating for justice and the courage to remember the true purpose of our vocations. Dr. Sims and I dissect the historical roots of institutionalized racism in religious movements and contemplate the church's role in fostering genuine reconciliation. By examining how faith shapes societal issues like health and education, we shed light on the need for actionable equality, challenging religious institutions to practice what they preach and to rethink their role in perpetuating discriminatory norms. We grapple with the obstacles of institutionalism, religious culturalism, and nationalism within the church. We question the conflation of cultural traditions with biblical teachings. This episode serves as a clarion call for compassion in action, urging believers to not only absorb the truth but to live it out by inviting conversations and learning from the full spectrum of history. Join us for a dialogue that promises to challenge and inspire your faith journey. #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

This episode peels back the layers of my life, Grantley Martelly, and the vibrant path walked under the influence of my family, particularly a mother whose faith never faltered. Dr. Andre Sims, joining me in an engaging role reversal, delves into the depths of my narrative, exploring the profound impact of spirituality and the unexpected turns that have led to this point in my life. The rhythm of Caribbean heritage beats at the heart of our discussion, where faith meets culture in a dance of delicate balance. The story of young musicians daring to weave reggae and Calypso into their worship is a symphony of struggle and triumph, resonating with a message of inclusivity and identity. Listeners will be transported to a world where the sanctity of traditional practices is challenged, and the beauty of cultural authenticity shines through, striking chords with a congregation as diverse as the melodies they celebrate. #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Ever wondered how to leverage your unique strengths to propel yourself to success? Austin J. Franklin, a nationally acclaimed speaker and author, illuminates how his "five more minutes" principle and concept of hidden credentials paved the way for his triumph over academic struggles. He shares intimate snippets of his journey with us, encouraging listeners to discover and tap into their own innate qualities that bridge the gap between perceived weaknesses and strengths. Franklin is the founder of Good Natured Life, a company infused with kindness, friendliness, and patience (KFP) that illuminates the intersection of entrepreneurship and faith, building to the power of shared visions - a lesson he learnt from his mother, who is now the president of his company. Finally, we delve into a profound exploration of faith, race, and leadership. Unpacking themes from his book, "The Difference Maker Leader," our guest presents five timeless principles for effective leadership. Highlighting the importance of vision as the bedrock of leadership, he underscores the need for adaptability, emotional intelligence, and growth positioning. This conversation is a call to action to embrace uncertainty and change, offering tools to transform disadvantage into advantage. Don't miss out on this episode—it's sure to fuel your journey towards self-improvement and leadership development. www.goodnaturedlife.com #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

We embark to give a historical perspective on the complexities of religious nationalism and how similar tactics are alive today to seek to establish religious/Christian nationalism in various pockets around the world including the United States of America. We'll travel back to the colonial era, exposing how religion was weaponized as a tool of control and exploitation. Our exploration will reveal the detrimental effects of religious nationalism when it descends into intolerance and exclusivity causing societal upheaval. We dissect the manipulation of religious nationalism to stoke fear, isolationism, and a sense of superiority. We shine a light on the tragic outcomes, including racism, ethnic intolerance, and an opposition to diversity. Despite these challenging realities, there is a silver lining. We delve into the transformative power of faith and the potential for individuals and communities to foster positive change. Listen in as we discuss the role people of faith can play in advancing social justice, education, medical equity, and more. #religiousnationalism; #christiannationalism #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

In this concluding episode our guest, Ijeoma Oluo: author and speaker helps us decode the true definitions of the terms: race and privilege; highlighting how racism is not just prejudice, but a systemic issue, and privilege is not a term to be weaponized but rather a descriptor of how one navigates the world. She also enlightens us on intersectionality and the importance of understanding our own privilege, as it can be a powerful tool in driving positive change. We explore the intricate relationship between intersectionality, race, and class in America. We delve into the real-world implications of these dynamics and the harm they can cause if used to create divisions among different social groups. We also emphasize the power of learning and supporting others, encouraging a culture of constant growth that embraces diversification of information sources and the questioning of whose voices might be missing in our everyday conversations. #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Join us on an enlightening odyssey with the remarkable Ijeoma Oluo, acclaimed writer and speaker, as we traverse the terrain of race, identity, and systemic racism. As the author of the New York Times bestseller "So You Want to Talk About Race," Ijeoma uniquely illustrates her journey from impoverishment to an influential voice in America. Listen to her candid recap of being the lone black person in numerous rooms and how these experiences, coupled with the harsh reality of systemic injustices, sparked her fervor for understanding and shedding light on race, identity, and systemic racism. We delve into the world of black women, often navigating societal structures with minimal support. We unravel the unequal burden they bear, reflect on the strength of their resilience, and emphasize the urgency of creating space for healing and self-investment. Ijeoma then guides us on a journey of understanding racism, offering invaluable insights on intersectionality and privilege — two pivotal yet frequently misunderstood subjects (Parts 1 & 2). You will become more equipped to engage these matters with clarity and better understanding. #ijeomaoluo #soyouwanttotalkaboutrace #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Are you fascinated by stories of resilience that cuts across racial boundaries? Hold tight as I bring you an intimate conversation with Erin Jones, author of 'Bridges to Heal Us Stories and Strategies for Racial Healing'. Her inspiring journey as a biracial, transracial adoptee and a significant influencer in the field of education is nothing short of riveting. Erin, also shares how the game of basketball became her refuge and an unexpected encounter with the legendary Julius Irving. We also delve into Erin's experiences with faith, race, and politics. From her daring decision to run for public office as the first black woman in Washington State, to the racial and political rifts she encountered in her church, Erin's story is a testament to resilience. Get ready for a hearty discussion on embracing curiosity, courage, and gratitude in our faith journey. Finally, we discuss the importance of expanding our circle of friends and stepping outside our comfort zones to make a difference. This episode is a treasure trove of insights and will leave you inspired to make a difference in your own way. Don't miss it! #education #erinjones #erinjones2016 #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Want to leave a profound legacy for your family? Discover the key elements of building a rich family legacy as I explore the biblical, social, and cultural aspects of this legacy. Drawing inspiration from the story of Paul and Timothy in 1 Timothy, together we uncover the importance of belonging, heritage, purpose, reputation, and recognizing our unique creation by God. In this thought-provoking conversation, we discuss the impact of seeking personal growth, the power of mentorship, and the beauty of seeing our children and others achieve more than we ever could. Plus, we emphasize the importance of cultivating a culture of celebration and support, empowering future generations to excel. But what about the relationships between seniors, youth, and the intergenerational aspects of legacy building? I try to help us understand the benefits of these connections, and how they create a solid foundation for young people to find their purpose and place in the world. Learn about encouraging our youth to strive for purity, faithfulness, and love, and how to bridge the generational gap for a positive impact. Let's build a legacy that will resonate with generations to come. #legacy #family #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Recent criminal, moral, and ethical indictments of political leaders around the world have created tenuous challenges for people of faith who have attached their moral and ethical support to a personality or party and are now faced with justifying the inexcusable. Do we then make exceptions some at the expense of others? Whenever people of faith adopt a political leader to represent their righteous indignation, their righteous indignation will become unrighteous. While integrity can bring a certain type of power; power and integrity are not always synonymous. Our values cannot be bought by chariots and horses and our hope is not in men. #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Our concluding discussion with Steve Bury, Executive Director of Urban Impact Seattle explores the 4 principles that have led to a successful, thriving multicultural community in the heart of the city focusing on Neighborhood Transformation, Health and Wellness, Economic Development, Youth Development, and Racial Reconciliation. Loving people is inconvenient but it is a good inconvenience. #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Steve Bury is the Executive Director of Urban Impact Seattle, a Christian Community Development Organization in the urban core of Seattle, WA. In part 1 of our 2-part conversation, Steve shares his story of growing up white in a multicultural community. As he grew into his calling of urban ministry Steve wrestled with what he was taught and the reality that was happening to others in his community. In his struggle to find his true self and his place in ministry, he realized that being white meant something and he began to unpack what it meant to be white in a Christian and cultural context. #whiteness #urbanministry #urbanimpactseattle #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

In part 2 of our conversation with Darryl, we discuss the mission and purpose of his organization, Miracle of Innocence: Seeking Justice and Providing Care for the Innocent, based in Kansas. The process of proving someone's innocence is a long and expensive road requiring skilled legal professionals, expert witnesses, and investigators. Once the person is released there are basically starting over with little or no resources. Things that people who have not been imprisoned find as part of normal life are mostly new to the newly exonerated: medical benefits, dental benefits, address, cell phone, transportation, clothing, income, and employment, to name a few. Miracle of Innocence is making inroads into helping people find freedom in life and freedom in Christ. Please feel free to support their ministry. miracleofinnocence.org darrylburton.org # faith; #race; #miracleof innocence; #reconciliation #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Darryl Burton, formerly Inmate 153063, is a walking miracle. Once wrongfully incarcerated for murder, he spent 24 years of a 75 sentence fighting to prove his innocence. Darryl is an example of the many people, mostly poor and people of color, who are wrongfully imprisoned by a flawed justice system that sometimes seeks simple answers and easy convictions. In the process of seeking justice, he encounter Jesus Christ and was released from his anger before he was able to walk free from the penitentiary. Darryl is also an ordained minister. In Part 1 of this 2-part series, we discuss his journey from childhood, to prison and eventual exoneration. In Part 2, we will discuss how his new freedom is helping others who are wrongly accused and convicted find their freedom through his Miracle of Innocence non-profit. Be aware that this episode contains descriptions of violence that some may find disturbing. darrylburton.org miracleofinnocence.org #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Exposure of sexual exploitation in the Christian community has filled the headlines. From the scandal of priests in the global Catholic Church to the Southern Baptist Convention, Jim Baker, Eric Tuininga, Eddie Long and Ravi Zacharias to less covered accusations and exploitations across many denominations and independent ministries the pattern of abuse by people in power and within power structures across church denominations or affiliations is undeniable. We can no longer allow the cover up of abuse of people, power, and biblical distortion. We can no longer afford to allow communities of faith to be incubators of abuse and sexual exploitation. We can no longer allow this plague to proliferate in the name of protection the institution of the church, pastors, cheap grace and false doctrine. Communities of faith need to be places where people can find hope, peace, safety, honesty, open communication and reconciliation. They also need be places where perpetrators cannot, and will not, find acceptance or refuge for their depravities. #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

In part 2 of our conversation, Council Person De'Sean Quin walks us through leading a highly diverse community among various special interests that can, at times, appear in conflict: calls for racial justice; defunding the police; serving on the state's African American Commission; improving livelihood for immigrant communities and their access to services; reducing negative police encounters through community policing are a few of the topics we cover. I'm sure that you will enjoy this episode but please be sure to listen to both parts 1 and 2 to get the complete conversation. #racism; #racialjustice; #community policing; #faith; #race #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

De'Sean Quinn is the Assistant General Manager for Partnerships and Strategy at King County Metro in Seattle, Washington, and an elected Council Member for the City of Tukwilla, Washington. His life is one of serving his community where he focuses on the implementation of strategies and solutions that promote diversity, equity, and belonging in community development and public transportation: taking services to where they are needed most. He understands that politics, policies and infrastructure whether transportation, roads, bridges, or housing has the ability to have major effects on people's quality of life and can promote or remove disparities. It is up to leaders to ensure that they do not. #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

Rev. Dr. Charles “Buddy” Parish is the pastor of First Baptist Church in Sweet Water, Florida. Our conversation today centers on reconciliation. His passion to see believers be reconciled to each other across racial and ethnic lines has taken him to unusual places to see and learn how reconciliation can be possible when we are intentional. Building relationships with others who may not look like us, speak like us, or who have been our enemies begin with conversation and relationship. There can be no reconciliation without confession. No people of any race, ethnicity, tribe, or religion are a monolithic group. We must get to know each other while at the same time realizing that there are also community or institutional systems that also need to be reconciled. #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

In part 2 of our kitchen counter conversation, Zeytun, Ghislain and I discuss their faith, their experiences being people of color in a prestigious university in Seattle, WA, and how they were each led to extraordinary, life-changing opportunities upon graduation. Ghislain and Zeytun close by sharing the faith strategies that have guided them to this point in their lives. Zeytun will start her Fulbright Scholarship residency in Korea in January 2023. Ghislain has relocated to Austin, Texas, and is enjoying developing his career in data informatics at IBM. #muslim; #christian; #refugee; #universityofwashington; #UW; race; #racism; #faith; #kentmeridianHS; #hillsidechurchkent @abovethenoise24 @abovethenoise_24 @gmartelly abovethenoise24@gmail.com #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.

After a long summer break, we are back with an inspiring conversation with two young people who became friends: a Christian and a Muslim. In their friendship, they have learned that they have more in common than they are different. Ghislain Bugingo is a refugee from the Republic of Congo whose parents escaped the Rwandan genocide of 1994. Zeytun Ahmed came to the US from Kenya and her parents are from Somalia and Ethiopia. These families were given a new start in the US and their children have used their struggles as stepping stones to avenues to accomplish more than seems possible in this short time. With faith in God and strong family support, Ghislain and Zeytun are about to change the world. You will be encouraged and inspired by their stories. Every young person should be given the opportunity to hear these stories of dreams and possibilities in the midst of struggle. #muslim; #christian; #refugee; #universityofwashington; #UW; race; #racism; #faith; #kentmeridianHS; #hillsidechurchkent @abovethenoise24 @abovethenoise_24 @gmartelly abovethenoise24@gmail.com #abovethenoise24 # faith #reconciliation #race racialreconciliation Stay in touch: Podcast art by Mario Christie.