The R.A.C.E. Podcast

The R.A.C.E S2 EP8: From Exodus to Ecology: Liberation Stories and Sacred Ground

The R.A.C.E. – From Exodus to Ecology: Liberation Stories and Sacred Ground In this powerful episode of The R.A.C.E. Podcast, we journey from the biblical story of Exodus to today’s urgent call for ecological justice. Our guests explore how liberation is not only spiritual but environmental — and how caring for the land is deeply rooted in our faith traditions. Through sacred stories, personal reflections, and prophetic insight, we discuss what it means to reclaim our role as stewards of creation and how the Black Church is uniquely positioned to lead in the fight for climate justice. Tune in as we connect liberation theology with the movement for a healthier planet — because freedom and flourishing must include the Earth beneath our feet. Listen now. Be inspired. Be the revival. #TheRACEPodcast  #greenthechurch   #FromExodusToEcology  #faithandclimate   #EnvironmentalLiberation  #SacredGround  #creationcare   #blackchurchvoices   #betherevival

The R.A.C.E S2 EP7: Preaching Green Eco-Theology in the Pulpit

The R.A.C.E S2 EP7: Preaching Green: Eco-Theology in the Pulpit In this heartfelt episode of Preaching Green: Eco-Theology in the Pulpit, the conversation turns toward culture, memory, and the sacred connection between land and legacy. A moving reflection on childhood summers, watermelon on the porch, and Southern family traditions opens the door to a deeper discussion on how place and heritage shape our spiritual identity. The episode explores how green sermons don’t always require a specific Scripture about nature — because every sermon can be a green sermon. As one guest powerfully puts it, preaching green is about perspective. It’s about recognizing that creation, care, and justice are embedded in the gospel we preach every week. Tune in to hear how eco-theology comes alive through stories, rooted in both scripture and the soil, and how every church can begin weaving sustainability into its sacred message. #PreachingGreen #GreenTheChurch  #FaithAndClimate  #EcoTheology  #BlackChurchVoices  #BeTheRevival

The R.A.C.E S2 EP5: Green Faith Rising: From Wilderness to Watered Gardens

The R.A.C.E S2 EP5: Green Faith Rising: From Wilderness to Watered Gardens In this rich and reflective episode of The R.A.C.E. Podcast, Green Faith Rising: From Wilderness to Watered Gardens, host Kenya Madison leads a moving discussion that dives deep into the sacred intersections of faith, farming, food justice, and Black resilience. Joined by Bobby and Daravia Rich, founders of Black Seeds Urban Farms in Memphis, Tennessee, and Tavia Gordon, Urban Agriculture Extension Agent at Florida A&M University, this episode brings together stories of land, legacy, and liberation. The conversation opens with personal reflections on how these leaders were called to the land—not just to grow food, but to heal communities. The Riches share how their farm became a response to the food deserts and systemic disinvestment in Memphis, emphasizing that farming is not just an economic or environmental act, but a spiritual one. Tavia Gordon, who works through HBCU land-grant institutions, expands the dialogue by describing her work supporting small farmers, protecting intergenerational land ownership, and teaching youth the power of growing their own food. The episode also touches on the profound importance of passing down agricultural knowledge within families, especially in the Black community where land was once stolen, lost, or undervalued. Throughout the episode, guests explore the challenges and triumphs of leading faith-rooted, Black-centered food initiatives. Topics range from the mental and spiritual impact of connecting to the soil, to advocating for urban agriculture policy, to the real-time hurdles of farm management, community engagement, and youth empowerment. Together, they paint a picture of what it means to turn “wilderness” into “watered gardens” — restoring not only the land, but also the dignity, power, and spiritual groundedness of the people working it. In closing, Green Faith Rising becomes a call to action: to sow seeds not only in soil but in the hearts of future generations. The episode invites listeners to imagine a world where churches are clean energy hubs, gardens are sacred spaces, and Black communities reclaim and protect the land that has long been theirs. It’s a vision of wholeness rooted in justice, love, and deep care for the Earth.

The R.A.C.E S2 EP4: Bridging the Gap: Faith, Finances & Mental Wellness in the Modern Church

The R.A.C.E. –  Bridging the Gap: Faith, Finances & Mental Wellness in the Modern Church This conversation centers around the intersection of mental health, financial stability, and the evolving role of the church in community engagement, especially in a post-pandemic context. The speakers explore how mental wellness is connected to financial wellness, challenging stigmas around mental health and encouraging holistic approaches to care — including therapy, stillness, and spiritual grounding. They emphasize that feeling overwhelmed doesn't always mean illness; sometimes, it means you're carrying too much without support. The dialogue also dives into the idea that the church must move beyond traditional teachings of tithing and scripture, and begin to provide practical support systems — such as financial literacy, counseling, and community gardens — as ministries in their own right. Further, there's a call to "green the budget" — meaning communities and churches should align their spending with justice by investing in sustainable practices like local food systems, renewable energy, and community programs. The group discusses how church and community must no longer function as separate entities but instead collaborate through outreach, inclusivity, and intergenerational communication. At its core, this conversation is a powerful reflection on how churches and communities can restructure leadership, build bridges, and create systems that heal, sustain, and empower people — mind, body, and spirit.

The R.A.C.E S2 EP3: Faith, Sustainability, and Community: Embracing Renewable Energy in the Church

The R.A.C.E. – Faith, Sustainability, and Community: Embracing Renewable Energy in the Church In this inspiring episode, we dive deep into the intersection of sustainability, renewable energy, and community care, especially from a faith-based perspective. We explore how a church has embraced solar energy, not only to reduce its utility costs but also to serve as a beacon of stewardship, collaboration, and support for the surrounding community. From providing a safe, powered refuge for those in need, to leading by example with environmental and financial stewardship, this conversation highlights how churches can play a crucial role in fostering sustainable, self-sufficient communities. We discuss the challenges of introducing new projects like solar panels, balancing community concerns, and how partnerships with organizations like Together New Orleans and the United Methodist Foundation can amplify impact. The episode also touches on how the church’s example can inspire other faith communities to lead in the renewable energy transition, and the importance of taking a global perspective on clean energy policies. We wrap up by discussing innovative ideas like solar farms and land leasing for green energy solutions, as well as the larger movement toward renewable energy worldwide. Join us for an insightful conversation about how faith communities can make a meaningful difference in creating a more sustainable and compassionate world.