Episode 45: Called Beyond the Pulpit with Rev. Melissa

Episode 45: Called Beyond the Pulpit with Rev. Melissa

In this episode of Confident Clergy Women, I sit down with Melissa Gall, an ordained deacon in the United Methodist Church and a high school English teacher, to talk about the joys, challenges, and calling of women in ministry. Melissa shares her unique journey of discovering a call that doesn’t fit the traditional mold, showing how ministry can be deeply faithful even when it looks different from what people expect.Together, we reflect on the important role deacons play in bridging the church and the world, and why that kind of ministry matters so much. Melissa talks honestly about balancing teaching, family, and faith, and about the encouragement and discouragement that come with serving in a role that many people don’t fully understand. Her story is a powerful reminder that God often calls us into places we never planned, but exactly where we are needed. We also have an honest conversation about what it means to be a woman in ministry today. From navigating questions and assumptions to leading with confidence and authenticity, Melissa shares why it matters for women to claim their calling boldly. We talk about the importance of mentorship, encouragement, and modeling diverse forms of leadership for the next generation of women who are discerning their own paths. Whether you’re discerning a call, serving in ministry, or simply looking for encouragement, I hope this conversation reminds you that you are not alone. Join us as we celebrate the women who have gone before us, invest in those who are coming next, and continue creating spaces where women can faithfully lead and thrive.

Episode 44: Rev. Angie on Resilience, Redemption, and the Courage to Lead

What happens when your life falls apart—and God uses the pieces to reshape your calling? In this episode, I sit down with Rev. Angie McCarty to talk about resilience, healing, and what it looks like to lead with authenticity after walking through life's hardest seasons. Angie shares her deeply personal story of navigating divorce, rediscovering her identity, and finding a renewed sense of calling in ministry. Together, we explore the unique challenges women face in church leadership, including how patriarchal systems often keep women from fully supporting one another and what it takes to break those unhealthy patterns. We also have an honest conversation about sexual harassment in the church—why it happens, how churches can respond better, and what to do if you've experienced it yourself. Angie offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and hope for women who are navigating difficult ministry environments. One of my favorite parts of our conversation is hearing about Angie's doctoral work. She shares how her research led her to deconstruct many of the messages women have been taught about sex, purity, and shame, and how that journey has become a healing ministry for women seeking freedom and wholeness. If you've ever questioned your calling, struggled with shame, or wondered how to remain faithful in the face of hardship, I hope this conversation reminds you that healing is possible and that God can use every part of your story. I'm so grateful you get to hear Angie's wisdom, and I know this conversation will encourage you wherever you are in your ministry journey. If you would like to reach out to Rev. Angie: Angie.mccarty@resurrection.church If you would be willing to share your story on the podcast, email me - laffeyad@gmail.com

Episode 43: A 40th Birthday, A New Tattoo and Rising Strong

After some time away celebrating Easter, my daughter’s graduation, and a milestone birthday, I’m back with a personal update. In this episode, I share the story behind my new Still I Rise tattoo, reflections on turning 40, and what I’m learning about resilience, faith, and feeling deeply loved. Plus, I’m inviting women with stories of ministry, leadership, and perseverance to share their journeys on the podcast. I’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re in a season of celebration, challenge, or somewhere in between, I hope this conversation reminds you that you’re not alone—and that we can keep rising, together. If you want to be on the podcast, email me at laffeyad@gmail.com!

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/