Too often, African American women leaders are pushed to bend, shrink, or "shift" who they are-especially in the church. Soul Stories cuts through the noise with unapologetic wisdom from trailblazers who lead with fierce faith and unshakeable community. Claim your voice, stand in your calling, and step into the freedom to lead-and flourish-on your own terms.
Soul Stories invites African American women leaders into a space where their gifts are seen, heard, affirmed-and nurtured. In a world where sexism, racism, hierarchical systems, and crooked rooms and pulpits pressure them to shrink or distort themselves, Soul Stories will be a trusted guide. Eleven seasoned church leaders, including Rev. Terri Hord Owens, leader of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), share narratives rooted in faith and family, revealing what it takes not just to survive these structures but to flourish. Gain a clear path forward by recognizing the hidden forces working against your leadership, reclaiming your voice with resilient faith, practice restorative self-care, embrace vulnerability as strength, and building the undefeated village that makes thriving possible. Resistance becomes resilience when African American women lead with prophetic clarity, unshakeable dignity, and a God-given call that no system can silence. Dr. Charisse L. Gillett is the first woman and first African American to serve as president of Lexington Theological Seminary in its 160-year history. She has over 30 years of higher education experience in Illinois, Kentucky and Iowa. Dr. Gillett is married to Rev. Dr. Donald K. Gillett II, Regional Minister of the Christian Church in Kentucky with whom she has four children and one grandchild.
