Confident Clergy Women

Episode 42: Clergywomen Thriving: Megan and Yvonne on Creating Sacred Space through Lead(Her)

What happens when clergywomen are given a space designed specifically for them? In this episode, I talk with Megan and Yvonne from United Methodist Church of the Resurrection about Lead(Her)—an event they helped create specifically for clergywomen who know that ministry can feel different when you are both a woman and a pastor. Megan and Yvonne share why they felt called to create Lead(Her) as a place where clergywomen can connect, be encouraged, and build relationships with others who truly understand their experiences in ministry. We talk about why these connections are essential for thriving in leadership and why spaces like this matter so much. They also discuss the importance of investing in yourself—taking a few days away from ministry to rest, learn, and reconnect with your calling. As they remind us, “The world won’t stop turning if we take time to invest in ourselves.” Along the way, Megan and Yvonne share powerful stories of clergywomen showing up for one another and reflect on the women who have inspired them—including Megan’s mom, who taught her this unforgettable advice: “You walk into a room, you throw your shoulders back, you hold your head up high, and you act like you are somebody.” If you’ve been longing for connection, encouragement, and a reminder that you are not alone in ministry, this conversation is for you. You can learn more and register for Lead(Her) here: https://sharechurch.com/leadher-empowering-female-clergy/ [https://sharechurch.com/leadher-empowering-female-clergy/]

Episode 41: Trailblazing Motherhood & Ministry with Rev. Natalie

What does it look like to become a mother while serving in the pulpit — especially when no one has gone before you? In this episode, I sit down with Rev. Natalie, who has served local congregations for 17 years. As a young female pastor who became pregnant at 27, she stepped into territory her congregation — and even her supervisor — had never navigated before. With courage and clarity, she helped shape policies and boundaries that made space for maternity leave, paving the way for clergy mothers who followed. Natalie also shares about her deep intellectual hunger for God, her connection to the Divine through music, and the powerful opportunity female clergy have to embody something unexpected in the pulpit. We talk honestly about pastoring while parenting, learning to care for ourselves without guilt, and why Sabbath is essential. To hear more from Natalie, check out her podcast A Church for Daniel. For More Details on my Clergywomen's Retreat, click here: https://revamberlaffey.my.canva.site/

Episode 40: Rev. Debi’s Journey - How God Wove Every Piece Together

In this episode, I sit down with Rev. Debi, an ordained Deacon in the United Methodist Church, whose journey into ministry is anything but linear. From aquatics teacher to Christian educator to counselor—and now serving in a local congregation—Debi shares how God faithfully wove together every season of her story in ways she never could have predicted. We talk about what it’s like to find yourself serving in a place you least expected, and how every skill, passion, and life experience becomes holy ground when placed in God’s hands. Debi reflects on how she co-creates with God in ministry, drawing from her diverse background to serve God’s people with wisdom, compassion, and authenticity. We also have an honest conversation about navigating grief and transition in ministry, the vulnerability that comes with change, and the deep importance of support systems—especially for women in clergy leadership. If you’ve ever wondered how God might use the seemingly disconnected pieces of your story… or if you’re walking through transition and need encouragement… this conversation is for you.

Episode 39: Leading Authentically: Confidence, Calling, and Community with Rev. Ally

In this episode of Confident Clergy Women, I’m joined by Rev. Ally, a Deacon at the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, for a rich conversation about what it looks like to serve with authenticity and confidence in ministry. Ally reflects on the joy of no two days ever looking the same in ministry, and how embracing all of our passions allows us to serve more fully and faithfully as clergy. We talk about the importance of bringing our whole selves into leadership, expressing who we are without apology, and learning to lead with confidence in the church. She also shares honestly about the additional challenges—and deep joys—of being a young woman in ministry, as well as the life-giving work of building genuine community within her congregation. This conversation is full of encouragement for clergywomen who long to lead authentically, trust their calling, and find joy in the everyday rhythms of ministry.

Episode 38: Emotionally Healthy Leadership with Melissa Hiatt

In this episode, I’m joined by Melissa Hiatt, MA, a therapist, coach, and strengths communicator, for a deeply honest conversation about emotionally healthy leadership, boundaries, and caring for ourselves and our families while living into our call. Together, we talk about why so many clergy women have been taught to override their own needs, how that eventually costs us and the people we love, and what it means to practice leadership that is both compassionate and sustainable. We explore: • Why boundaries are essential—not selfish—in ministry • How emotional awareness strengthens our leadership rather than weakens it • The connection between our feelings, thoughts, and actions • What it looks like to tend to our own well-being while still showing up faithfully for others Melissa brings wisdom from her background as a Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator, Strengths Communicator, and her work in clinical pastoral education—offering insight that is practical, pastoral, and deeply human. Connect with Melissa: https://www.melissahiatt.com/about