Episodes

  • Season 02: E04 | TRUTH - The Neuroscience of Truth-Telling for Burned-Out Leaders

    Season 02: E04 | TRUTH - The Neuroscience of Truth-Telling for Burned-Out Leaders
    Dec 21 2025
    You can be incredibly competent and emotionally exhausted at the same time. You can be crushing your goals while quietly suffocating under the weight of what you won't say out loud. Many leaders have built impressive résumés while quietly ignoring the truth their bodies have been screaming—confusing professionalism with pretending, strength with silence.In Episode 4 of the Take What You Need 100-day series, Dr. Phenessa Gray dismantles the dangerous narrative that honesty threatens leadership stability. Drawing from John 8:32, Psalm 51:6, and Psalm 42:11, this episode reveals what biblical truth actually looks like: alignment that liberates your nervous system and clarifies your leadership instead of collapsing it.You'll discover:- The Greek word ginōskō (to know experientially) and what it means for embodied truth- Why cognitive dissonance creates full-system stress responses in your brain- The F.I.N.E. framework: Frustrated, Insecure, Neurotic, Emotional—or Feelings In Need of Expression- How code-switching and emotional labor drain leaders who navigate multiple cultural contexts- The neuroscience of behavioral integrity and what happens when your words don't match your actions- How chronic misalignment compromises your prefrontal cortex and hyperactivates your amygdala- 4-4-6 breathwork practice to activate parasympathetic regulation- The practice of "energetic integrity"—one micro-move to restore nervous system relief- Why expressive writing about difficult truths creates neural pathways for healingPerfect for: Leaders who are tired of performing instead of processing—library directors, educators, nonprofit founders, ministry leaders, corporate managers, women in leadership, and anyone who's been saying "I'm fine" while their body screams otherwise.Accessible Resources & References (APA 7th Edition)Scripture Tools (Free, Accessible)- Bible Gateway. (n.d.). Free Bible reading and study tools. https://www.biblegateway.com/- Bible Hub. (n.d.). Interlinear and lexicon tools. https://biblehub.com/- Blue Letter Bible. (n.d.). Lexicon and word study resources. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Hebrew & Greek Word Studies- Blue Letter Bible. (n.d.). Strong's G1097 - ginōskō (to know, experientially). https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1097/kjv/tr/0-1/- Blue Letter Bible. (n.d.). Strong's H571 - emet (truth, reliability, faithfulness). https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h571/kjv/wlc/0-1/- Blue Letter Bible. (n.d.). Strong's H2910 - tuchoth (inward parts, hidden places). https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h2910/kjv/wlc/0-1/- Blue Letter Bible. (n.d.). Strong's G1659 - eleutheroō (to set free, liberate). https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1659/kjv/tr/0-1/Biblical Reference Works- Brown, F., Driver, S. R., & Briggs, C. A. (1906). The Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon. Hendrickson Publishers.- Kittel, G., & Friedrich, G. (Eds.). (1964). Theological dictionary of the New Testament (Vol. 1).- Eerdmans. Strong, J. (1890). Strong's exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Abingdon Press.Cognitive Dissonance & Psychological Alignment- Festinger, L. (1957). A theory of cognitive dissonance. Stanford University Press.- Harmon-Jones, E., & Mills, J. (2019). An introduction to cognitive dissonance theory and an overview of current perspectives on the theory. In E. Harmon-Jones (Ed.), Cognitive dissonance: Reexamining a pivotal theory in psychology (2nd ed., pp. 3–24). American Psychological Association. https://doi.org/10.1037/0000135-001Neuroscience: Stress, Trauma & Integration- Damasio, A. R. (1994). Descartes' error: Emotion, reason, and the human brain. Putnam.- Sapolsky, R. M. (2004). Why zebras don't get ulcers (3rd ed.). Henry Holt and Company.- Siegel, D. J. (2012). The developing mind: How relationships and the brain interact to shape who we are (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.- Van der Kolk, B. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.- McEwen, B. S. (1998). Protective and damaging effects of stress mediators. New England Journal of Medicine, 338(3), 171–179. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJM199801153380307- Lupien, S. J., McEwen, B. S., Gunnar, M. R., & Heim, C. (2009). Effects of stress throughout the lifespan on the brain, behaviour and cognition. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 10(6), 434–445. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2639Emotional Labor & Code-Switching- Hochschild, A. R. (1983). The managed heart: Commercialization of human feeling. University of California Press.- Grandey, A. A. (2000). Emotion regulation in the workplace: A new way to conceptualize emotional labor. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 5(1), 95–110. https://doi.org/10.1037/1076-8998.5.1.95- Brotheridge, C. M., & Grandey, A. A. (2002). Emotional labor and burnout: Comparing two perspectives of "people work." Journal of Vocational Behavior, 60(1), 17–39. https://doi.org/10.1006/jvbe.2001.1815- McCluney, C. L., Robotham, K., Lee, S., Smith, R.,...
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    21 mins
  • Season 2: Episode 3 | GRIT: When Your Strength Doesn’t Cost Your Soul

    Season 2: Episode 3 | GRIT: When Your Strength Doesn’t Cost Your Soul
    Dec 15 2025
    You can be incredibly strong and spiritually bankrupt at the same time. You can achieve remarkable things while losing remarkable parts of yourself. Many leaders have built impressive résumés while quietly eroding their souls—confusing perseverance with punishment, dedication with depletion.In Episode 3 of the Take What You Need 100-day series, Dr. Phenessa Gray dismantles the toxic narrative that strength requires soul sacrifice. Drawing from Matthew 11:28-30, Isaiah 40:31, and Psalm 23:2-3, this episode reveals what biblical grit actually looks like: Spirit-sustained strength that makes you more alive, not less.You'll discover:•The Hebrew word chālîyph (renew/exchange) and what it means for depleted leaders•Why self-generated grit always has a price tag—and God's strength doesn't•The Four Energy Dimensions framework for sustainable leadership (physical, emotional, mental, spiritual)•How allostatic load from chronic stress literally changes your brain structure•The practice of "soul-cost accounting" before saying yes to anything•A soul-restoration breathing meditation to reconnect with God's sustaining presence•How to audit whether your current strength is feeding or costing your soulPerfect for: Leaders who are tired of choosing between their calling and their wholeness—library directors, educators, nonprofit founders, ministry leaders, corporate managers, and anyone who's been sacrificing their soul for their impact.Scripture Tools (Free, Accessible)•Bible Gateway. (n.d.). Free Bible reading and study tools. https://www.biblegateway.com/•Bible Hub. (n.d.). Interlinear and lexicon tools. https://biblehub.com/•Blue Letter Bible. (n.d.). Lexicon and word study resources. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Hebrew & Greek Word Studies•Blue Letter Bible. (n.d.). Strong's H2498 - chālîyph (to change, renew, exchange). https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h2498/kjv/wlc/0-1/•Blue Letter Bible. (n.d.). Strong's G373 - anapauō (to give rest, refresh). https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g373/kjv/tr/0-1/Howard Thurman Quote Source•Thurman, H. (1980). The growing edge. Friends United Press. (Quote widely attributed and verified through Thurman archives)________________________________________Credible Scholarly Works (APA 7th Edition)Energy Management & Sustainable Performance•Loehr, J., & Schwartz, T. (2003). The power of full engagement: Managing energy, not time, is the key to high performance and personal renewal. Free Press.•Schwartz, T., & McCarthy, C. (2007). Manage your energy, not your time. Harvard Business Review, 85(10), 63–73.•Sonnentag, S., & Fritz, C. (2015). Recovery from job stress: The stressor‐detachment model as an integrative framework. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 36(S1), S72–S103. https://doi.org/10.1002/job.1924•Dalal, R. S., Bhave, D. P., & Fiset, J. (2014). Within-person variability in job performance: A theoretical review and research agenda. Journal of Management, 40(5), 1396–1436. https://doi.org/10.1177/0149206314532691Neuroscience: Allostatic Load & Chronic Stress•McEwen, B. S. (1998). Protective and damaging effects of stress mediators. New England Journal of Medicine, 338(3), 171–179. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJM199801153380307•McEwen, B. S., & Stellar, E. (1993). Stress and the individual: Mechanisms leading to disease. Archives of Internal Medicine, 153(18), 2093–2101. https://doi.org/10.1001/archinte.1993.00410180039004•Juster, R. P., McEwen, B. S., & Lupien, S. J. (2010). Allostatic load biomarkers of chronic stress and impact on health and cognition. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 35(1), 2–16. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2009.10.002•Lupien, S. J., McEwen, B. S., Gunnar, M. R., & Heim, C. (2009). Effects of stress throughout the lifespan on the brain, behaviour and cognition. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 10(6), 434–445. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2639Breathwork & Contemplative Practices•Ma, X., Yue, Z. Q., Gong, Z. Q., Zhang, H., Duan, N. Y., Shi, Y. T., Wei, G. X., & Li, Y. F. (2017). The effect of diaphragmatic breathing on attention, negative affect and stress in healthy adults. Frontiers in Psychology, 8, 874. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00874•Zaccaro, A., Piarulli, A., Laurino, M., Garbella, E., Menicucci, D., Neri, B., & Gemignani, A. (2018). How breath-control can change your life: A systematic review on psycho-physiological correlates of slow breathing. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 12, 353. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2018.00353•Porges, S. W. (2011). The polyvagal theory: Neurophysiological foundations of emotions, attachment, communication, and self-regulation. W. W. Norton & Company.Burnout & Occupational Health•Maslach, C., & Leiter, M. P. (2016). Understanding the burnout experience: Recent research and its implications for psychiatry. World Psychiatry, 15(2), 103–111. https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20311•Salvagioni, D. A. J., Melanda, F. N., Mesas...
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    18 mins
  • Season 02: E02 | GRACE: Permission to Be Human

    Season 02: E02 | GRACE: Permission to Be Human
    Dec 7 2025
    What if grace isn’t the opposite of strength, but the source of it?In this second episode of the Take What You Need 100-day series, Dr. Phenessa Gray offers a deeply personal and research-informed invitation to rediscover grace—not as a soft sentiment, but as a strategic act of self-leadership. Rooted in Scripture and supported by leadership theory and neuroscience, this episode reframes grace as permission to be—to be honest, to be human, to be whole.Dr. Phenessa shares her own experience of burning out in silence, the weight of the “superwoman complex,” and the breakthrough that came when she finally allowed herself to stop performing and start healing. Through this lens, she introduces a grace-based leadership model—Pause, Perspective, Plan—designed to help leaders build emotional sustainability, prevent burnout, and re-engage with presence and intention.You’ll explore:The biblical concept of charis—grace as divine empowerment, not indulgenceEmotional sustainability as a leadership necessityHow chronic depletion disrupts executive functioning and decision-makingWhy grace doesn’t excuse outcomes—it preserves the leader delivering themThe neuroscience of recovery and the role of micro-shiftsA guided 4-4-6 breathwork practice to regulate and resetA poetic reflection on what grace sounds like in leadershipA heart–mind check and journal prompt to deepen awarenessActionable leadership shifts to help you lead from alignment, not exhaustionPerfect for:Leaders who feel stretched thin but stay silentWomen navigating the “strong Black woman” or “superwoman” identityLibrary directors, educators, nonprofit executives, and ministry leadersProfessionals managing emotional labor and invisible expectationsAnyone needing spiritual permission to rest, reset, and reclaim spaceWhether you’re navigating high demand, holding space for others, or just tired of leading from empty—this episode reminds you that grace is not weakness—it’s wisdom in motion.Join the ConversationShare your one-word intention using #TakeWhatYouNeed and connect with a community of leaders choosing presence over perfection. Together, we’re learning to Love Bold, Live Lit, and Lead Forward.Next Episode: Episode 3 – JOY: Resisting Hustle with Wholeness Connect with Dr. Phenessa💡 Website: EMSightGlobal.com📸 Instagram: @DrPhenessa💼 LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/phenessagray/✉️ Email: info@emsightglobal.com 🏮Subscribe to LeadInLight app (7-Day Trial for Premium Access)Love this episode?⭐ Leave a review on any podcast platform🔗 Share with a leader who needs this message🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode ________________________________________📚 APA 7 Reference List2 Corinthians 12:9–10. (n.d.). The Message. NavPress Publishing Group. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+12%3A9-10&version=MSGArnsten, A. F. T. (2009). Stress signalling pathways that impair prefrontal cortex structure and function. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 10(6), 410–422. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2648 Blue Letter Bible. (n.d.). Charis (G5485) – Grace. https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G5485Hayes, S. C., Luoma, J. B., Bond, F. W., Masuda, A., & Lillis, J. (2006). Acceptance and commitment therapy: Model, processes and outcomes. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 44(1), 1–25. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16300724/Hebrews 4:15–16. (n.d.). The Passion Translation. BroadStreet Publishing Group. https://www.bible.com/bible/1849/HEB.4.15-16.TPTHobfoll, S. E. (1989). Conservation of resources: A new attempt at conceptualizing stress. American Psychologist, 44(3), 513–524. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.44.3.513Neff, K. D. (2011). Self-compassion: The proven power of being kind to yourself. HarperCollins. https://books.google.com/books/about/Self_Compassion.html?id=6krvBkA78XcCPhilippians 1:6. (n.d.). The Voice Translation. Thomas Nelson. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+1%3A6&version=VOICEBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/love-light-leadership-podcast--6730707/support.
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    19 mins
  • Season 02: E01 | Take What You Need Series: POWER - Reclaiming What’s Already Yours

    Season 02: E01 | Take What You Need Series: POWER - Reclaiming What’s Already Yours
    Dec 1 2025
    (00:00:00) Season 02: E01 | Take What You Need Series: POWER - Reclaiming What’s Already Yours (00:00:02) Welcome to Love and Light Leadership Podcast (00:00:37) Setting the Stage for Sustainable Leadership (00:03:48) The Burden of Self-Silencing (00:05:35) Balancing Grace and Grit (00:06:23) Embracing Your Humanity (00:08:40) Leadership Challenge and Closing Prayer (00:09:51) Closing Remarks and Call to Action What if the power you’re searching for isn’t something you must earn, prove, or chase…but something you simply need to remember? In this opening episode of the Take What You Need 100-day series, Dr. Phenessa Gray guides you into a deeper understanding of POWER, not as dominance or performance, but as the inner authority God has already placed within you. Grounded in Scripture and enriched with insights from industrial-organizational psychology and neuroscience, this episode reveals why so many leaders quietly give their power away through overextension, people-pleasing, and unclear boundaries—and how to reclaim it with grace and conviction.You’ll explore: The meaning of chreia (God providing for your purpose) in Philippians 4:19The forceful, intentional agency described in Matthew 11:12 (AMPC)Why role creep silently drains leadership clarity and confidenceHow chronic depletion disrupts your prefrontal cortex and decision-makingA poetic reflection to help you reconnect with your inner strengthA guided 4-4-6 breathwork practice to realign your nervous systemA weekly micro-action that begins your power reclamation journey🎯 Perfect for:Library and academic leaders navigating high emotional labor and resource constraintsNonprofit executives balancing mission with burnout preventionCorporate professionals striving to lead with authenticity in performance-driven environmentsEmerging leaders discovering how to protect their voice, peace, and paceSpirit-led leaders who feel deeply, process slowly, and lead with intention💬This episode is especially resonant if you:Say “yes” out of habit rather than alignmentCarry responsibilities that were never yours to begin withStruggle with people-pleasing or fear of disappointing othersFeel stretched thin but still compelled to push harderThink of yourself as strong… until your body says otherwise.Dr. Phenessa leads you through a poetic reflection, a Grace + Grit moment from her own life, breathwork, and a leadership strategy grounded in both Scripture and research. You’ll walk away with a clear journal prompt, a Heart–Mind Check, and a practical challenge to take back one inch of space in your life.Join the Conversation Share your one-word intention using #TakeWhatYouNeed on Instagram and tag me @DrPhenessa or LinkedIn. Connect with a community of leaders learning to Love Bold, Live Lit, and Lead Forward. Next Episode: Episode 2 – GRACE: Permission to Be HumanConnect with Dr. Phenessa💡 Website: EMSightGlobal.com📸 Instagram: @DrPhenessa💼 LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/phenessagray/✉️ Email: info@emsightglobal.com 🏮Subscribe to LeadInLight app (7-Day Trial for Premium Access)Love this episode?⭐ Leave a review on any podcast platform🔗 Share with a leader who needs this message🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode ________________________________________📚 APA 7 Reference List American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Role theory. In APA dictionary of psychology. https://dictionary.apa.org/role-theoryArnsten, A. F. T. (2009). Stress signaling pathways that impair prefrontal cortex structure and function. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 10(6), 410–422. https://www.nature.com/articles/nrn2648Bakker, A. B., & Demerouti, E. (2007). The Job Demands–Resources model: State of the art. Journal of Managerial Psychology, 22(3), 309–328. https://peopleful.io/Job-Demands-Resource-Model-research.pdfBandura, A. (1977). Social learning theory. Prentice Hall. https://www.learning-theories.com/social-learning-theory-bandura.htmlBlue Letter Bible. (n.d.). Chreia (G5532) & harpazō (G726). https://www.blueletterbible.orgBible Hub. (n.d.). Interlinear study tools. https://www.biblehub.comGoleman, D. (1995). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam Books. https://books.google.com/books/about/Emotional_Intelligence.html?id=AcJ7dwsnWiICHuberman, A. (n.d.). Huberman Lab Podcast. Accessible episodes on stress & nervous system regulation. https://www.hubermanlab.com/podcastLogos Bible Study Platform. (n.d.). https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXkjd_l1xkSS1MnD9ptKhj8gQx84thS0VProject Gutenberg. (n.d.). Ralph Waldo Emerson collection. https://www.gutenberg.orgSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. (n.d.). https://www.siop.orgVan Dyne, L. I. N. N., & Ellis, J. B. (2004). Job creep: A reactance theory perspective on organizational citizenship behavior as over-fulfillment of obligations. The employment relationship: Examining psychological and contextual perspectives, 181-205. https://...
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    13 mins
  • Episode 12 | Self-Control: Leading from the Inside Out

    Episode 12 | Self-Control: Leading from the Inside Out
    Nov 23 2025
    In Episode 12, "Self-Control: Leading from the Inside Out," Dr. Phenessa Gray brings our transformative journey through the nine fruits of the Spirit to a powerful close. This isn't just another episode about discipline—it's a reimagining of what self-mastery truly means for leaders who want to create lasting impact without burning out.What You'll Discover:Why self-control is like ancient city walls—not about isolation, but about protection of what's precious within.The neuroscience of self-regulation and how your prefrontal cortex strengthens with practice.Dr. Roy Baumeister's research on why self-control functions like a muscle.The critical difference between self-effort (which exhausts) and Spirit-partnership (which sustains).Practical strategies: The Boundary Architecture Framework and Sacred Pauses technique.How to conduct a decision fatigue audit and preserve mental capacity for what matters most.Perfect For:Library leaders and information professionals navigating service-oriented workAspiring leaders building sustainable leadership practicesAnyone who processes deeply, feels intensely, or carries others' emotionsLeaders tired of performative productivity and hustle cultureThose seeking to integrate faith and strategy in their leadershipEpisode Highlights Include:Anchor scriptures from Proverbs 25:28 (The Passion Translation & The Voice)Research-backed leadership strategies from organizational psychologyA transformative Grace & Grit Moment addressing perfectionism and boundariesGuided 4-4-6 breathwork for centeringHeart-Mind Check with reflective journaling promptsClosing prayer for the entire Fruit of the Spirit seriesDr. Phenessa Gray masterfully weaves together Biblical wisdom, cutting-edge research, and practical coaching to help you establish boundaries that honor your capacity, protect your peace, and preserve your power to lead effectively.Whether you're leading a team, stewarding community resources, or aspiring to greater influence, this episode will transform how you think about self-control—not as restriction, but as the ultimate act of self-respect and divine partnership.This is leadership from the inside out. This is Love & Light Leadership.Biblical References:Proverbs 25:28 (The Passion Translation & The Expanded Bible)Galatians 5:22-23 (multiple translations) - The fruit of the Spirit, with self-control as the culminating virtue1 Corinthians 9:25 - Paul's teaching on self-discipline in pursuit of purpose2 Peter 1:5-6 - Building self-control upon faith and virtueJohn 15:5 - "Apart from me you can do nothing" - emphasizing divine partnershipVisit BibleGateway.com for further study.Research & Theory:Baumeister, R. F., & Tierney, J. (2011). Willpower: Rediscovering the greatest human strength. Penguin Press. [Foundational research establishing self-control as a depletable but trainable cognitive resource, with implications for leadership effectiveness]Duckworth, A. (2016). Grit: The power of passion and perseverance. Scribner. [Explores how sustained self-discipline combined with passion leads to exceptional achievement across various fields]Clear, J. (2018). Atomic habits: An easy & proven way to build good habits & break bad ones. Avery. [Practical framework for designing environments and systems that reduce reliance on willpower through habit architecture]•Kahneman, D. (2011). Thinking, fast and slow. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. [Explains automatic versus deliberate thinking systems, providing insight into impulse control mechanisms]•Vohs, K. D., & Baumeister, R. F. (2016). Handbook of self-regulation: Research, theory, and applications (3rd ed.). Guilford Press. [Comprehensive academic resource examining self-regulation across psychological, organizational, and developmental contexts]•Muraven, M., & Baumeister, R. F. (2000). "Self-regulation and depletion of limited resources: Does self-control resemble a muscle?" Psychological Bulletin, 126(2), 247-259. [Seminal research establishing the ego depletion model and muscle metaphor for self-control]Additional Context:Prefrontal cortex research in cognitive neuroscience demonstrates that executive function capacity strengthens with deliberate practice of self-regulatory behaviors, supporting the concept that self-control develops through consistent exercise rather than being a fixed trait.Industrial-Organizational psychology research establishes clear connections between leader self-regulation and reduced team burnout, improved decision-making quality, and enhanced psychological safety within work environments.Studies in service professions, including library science and information services, emphasize the critical role of boundary-setting and energy management in preventing compassion fatigue and sustaining long-term effectiveness in mission-driven work.All references selected for availability through public libraries, university databases, or widely available published works.________________________________________Connect ...
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    16 mins
  • Episode 11 | Gentleness: The Quietest Power Move

    Episode 11 | Gentleness: The Quietest Power Move
    Nov 17 2025
    What if the most powerful thing you could bring to your leadership today isn’t louder authority or tighter control — but a quieter strength?In this week’s episode of Love & Light Leadership, Dr. Phenessa Gray explores Gentleness: The Quietest Power Move — the Fruit of the Spirit that redefines how we lead, respond, and influence.Through Scripture, neuroscience, and spiritual insight, you’ll learn how gentleness activates safety in the nervous system, fosters trust, and transforms communication — turning tension into connection.Featuring reflections on Proverbs 15:1 and Matthew 11:29, this episode will help you understand why calm leaders create the most courageous teams.Together, we’ll practice the Three-Second Reset, reflect with a Heart–Mind Check, and close with prayer — inviting you to lead with both grace and grit, softness and strength.🕊️ This isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom wrapped in peace.💡 Learn how to embody the quiet confidence that changes the atmosphere everywhere you lead. What You’ll Experience:Reflection on the Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness (Proverbs 15:1, Galatians 5:22–23)The neuroscience of calm authority (Polyvagal Theory & emotional intelligence)The Three-Second Reset: a leadership tool for regulating your responseThe Grace & Grit Moment — where softness meets strengthGuided 4-4-6 breathwork meditation & prayerEpisode 11 Resources & ReferencesBiblical References:Proverbs 15:1Matthew 11:29 – Jesus describes himself as “gentle and humble in heart”Isaiah 42:3 – “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out”Galatians 5:22-23 – The fruit of the Spirit includes gentleness📖 Access Scripture Translations:Multiple translations at https://www.biblegateway.comResearch & Theory:Edmondson, A. C. (2018). The fearless organization: Creating psychological safety in the workplace for learning, innovation, and growth. Wiley.https://www.wiley.com/en-us/The+Fearless+Organization%3A+Creating+Psychological+Safety+in+the+Workplace+for+Learning%2C+Innovation%2C+and+Growth-p-9781119477242Porges, S. W. (2011). The polyvagal theory: Neurophysiological foundations of emotions, attachment, communication, and self-regulation. W. W. Norton & Company.https://wwnorton.com/books/9780393707007Neff, K. D. (2009). The role of self-compassion in development: A healthier way to relate to oneself. Self and Identity, 8(2–3), 135–152.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2790748/Ćwiąkała, J., Kowalska, M., & Nowak, T. (2025). The importance of emotional intelligence in leadership for building an effective team. arXiv pre-print.https://arxiv.org/abs/2510.07004Harvard Business Review. (2020, November). Self-compassion will make you a better leader. Harvard Business Review.https://hbr.org/2020/11/self-compassion-will-make-you-a-better-leaderAdditional Context:The autonomic nervous system research supports that calm, respectful communication promotes safer physiological states and better cognitive functioning, while aggressive communication triggers stress responses. Self-compassion research shows that treating oneself with kindness improves emotional regulation, motivation, and resilience—key traits for leader.Connect with Dr. Phenessa💡 Website: EMSightGlobal.com📸 Instagram: @DrPhenessa💼 LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/phenessagray/✉️ Email: info@emsightglobal.com Love this episode?⭐ Leave a review on any podcast platform🔗 Share with a leader who needs this message🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episodeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/love-light-leadership-podcast--6730707/support.
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    14 mins
  • Episode 10 | Faithfulness: The Foundation of Trust

    Episode 10 | Faithfulness: The Foundation of Trust
    Nov 10 2025
    How do the people you lead know they can truly depend on you? In Episode 9 of Love & Light Leadership, Dr. Phenessa Gray explores faithfulness—the steadfast commitment that builds trust, strengthens teams, and transforms your leadership impact.Building on last week's conversation about goodness, this episode examines faithfulness as goodness demonstrated over time. It's integrity that doesn't waver under pressure, and in leadership, it's the foundation that everything else is built upon.In This Episode, You'll Discover:✨ Anchor Scripture: Proverbs 28:20 in two translations—why committed, persistent work pays off✨ The Psychology of Trust: How psychological safety depends on leader consistency and what organizational research reveals about faithfulness in action✨ The Three Cs Framework: Practical strategies for building trust through Consistency, Credibility, and Communication✨ Grace & Grit Moment: Dr. Phenessa shares a vulnerable story about overextending herself, experiencing burnout despite making others happy, and discovering that faithfulness to others must begin with faithfulness to yourself✨ Breathwork Practice: A 4-4-6 breathing rhythm to ground yourself in steadfastness and release inconsistency✨ Heart-Mind Check: Reflective questions and journal prompts to identify where you need to recommit to faithfulness—including to yourself✨ Prayer & Affirmation: Spiritual practices to align your leadership with God's faithfulnessKey Takeaway:Faithfulness isn't about perfection or being superhuman—it's about being honest with yourself and others. Before we can be faithful to others, we must be faithful to ourselves, knowing our capacity, honoring our limits, and showing up where we've genuinely committed.This Week's Challenge:Choose ONE commitment and follow through with intentionality and excellence. Share your commitment using #LoveAndLightLeadership.Resources Mentioned:LeadInLight App: Access exclusive coaching modules, journal prompts, and community support at https://leadinlight.appConnect with Dr. Phenessa on social media for daily leadership encouragement.Episode 10 Resources & ReferencesScripture ReferencesProverbs 28:20•The Voice (VOICE): https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%2020%3A28&version=VOICE •The Message (MSG): https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%2020%3A28&version=NIV Related Scriptures on Faithfulness•Galatians 5:22-23 – Fruit of the Spirit (includes faithfulness)•Matthew 25:14-30 – Parable of the Talents (faithfulness with what we're given)•Luke 16:10 – "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much"📖 Access Scripture Translations:•Multiple translations at https://www.biblegateway.com________________________________________Research & ConceptsLeadership & Organizational Psychology ConceptsPsychological SafetyThe concept that team members feel safe to take interpersonal risks, speak up, and be vulnerable without fear of negative consequences.Key Researcher: Dr. Amy Edmondson, Harvard Business SchoolHer groundbreaking work defines psychological safety as essential for learning, innovation, and high performance in teamsAccessible Resource:Edmondson, A. (2018). The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth. Wiley. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fearless-Organization-Psychological-Workplace-Innovation/dp/1119477247Quick Read: Edmondson's TED Talk "Building a psychologically safe workplace". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhoLuui9gX8 ________________________________________Trust in LeadershipThe Three Cs Framework (Consistency, Credibility, Communication) draws from established trust research in organizational behavior:Foundational Work:- Mayer, R.C., Davis, J.H., & Schoorman, F.D. (1995). "An Integrative Model of Organizational Trust." Academy of Management Review, 20(3), 709-734. https://doi.org/10.2307/258792- Defines trust as willingness to be vulnerable based on expectations of trustworthy behavior- Identifies ability, benevolence, and integrity as key trust factorsAccessible Resource:- Covey, S.M.R. (2006). The Speed of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything. Free Press. https://speedoftrust.com/ - Practical application of trust principles in leadership- Breaks down how consistency and credibility accelerate organizational effectiveness_______________________________________Leader Consistency & PredictabilityConcept: Behavioral consistency in leaders creates stability and reduces uncertainty for teams.Research Foundation:- Kernan, M.C.& Hanges, P.J. (2002). "Survivor reactions to reorganization: Antecedents and consequences of procedural, interpersonal, and informational justice." Journal of Applied Psychology, 87(5), 916-928. https://doi.org/10.1037/0021-9010.87.5.916- Demonstrates how consistent leader behavior during change reduces anxiety and increases commitmentAccessible Resource:- Lencioni, P. (2012). The Advantage: ...
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    13 mins
  • Episode 09 | Goodness - The Radical Force That Transforms Everything

    Episode 09 | Goodness - The Radical Force That Transforms Everything
    Nov 3 2025
    What if goodness isn't about being nice, agreeable, or keeping the peace? What if it's actually one of the most radical, transformative forces available to you as a leader?In this episode, Dr. Phenessa unpacks the biblical fruit of goodness—not the surface-level kind, but the active, courageous goodness that flows from union with Christ. Drawing from Ephesians 5:8-9, neuroscience research on mirror neurons, and her own journey of confusing people-pleasing with genuine goodness, she reveals why this supernatural fruit is essential for lasting leadership influence.You'll discover:•Why biblical goodness (agathosune) is active, even aggressive—not passive•How leaders create a "moral climate" that literally shapes people's brains•The three-question Goodness Audit that exposes compromise•Why character outlasts competence every time•How to surrender ego and lead with righteousness even when it costs you somethingThis isn't about being perfect. It's about being filled. Because here's the truth: You can't light the way for others with a lamp you refuse to fill.If you're ready to move beyond niceness into the kind of goodness that disrupts darkness and transforms everything—this episode is for you.Love Bold. Live Lit. Lead Forward.EPISODE RESOURCES & REFERENCESScripture ReferencesEphesians 5:8-9, The Passion TranslationMatthew 25:3-13, Parable of the Ten VirginsJohn 2:13-16 (Jesus cleansing the temple - example of active goodness)📖 Access The Passion Translation at https://www.bible.com/versions/1849-tpt-the-passion-translation________________________________________Research & ConceptsEthical LeadershipBrown, M. E., Treviño, L. K., & Harrison, D. A. (2005). Ethical leadership: A social learning perspective for construct development and testing. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 97(2), 117-134. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0749597805000397 Moral Climate TheoryVictor, B., & Cullen, J. B. (1988). "The organizational bases of ethical work climates." Administrative Science Quarterly, 33(1), 101-125. https://doi.org/10.2307/2392857Mirror Neurons & Social LearningIacoboni, M. (2009). Imitation, empathy, and mirror neurons. Annual Review of Psychology, 60, 653-670. https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/abs/10.1146/annurev.psych.60.110707.163604Positive Organizational BehaviorCameron, K. S., Bright, D., & Caza, A. (2004). Exploring the relationships between organizational virtuousness and performance. American Behavioral Scientist, 47(6), 766-790. https://doi.org/10.1177/0002764203260209Neuroplasticity & Ethical Decision-MakingPascual-Leone, A., et al. (2005). The plastic human brain cortex. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 28, 377-401. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16022601/ Authentic LeadershipAvolio, B. J., & Gardner, W. L. (2005). Authentic leadership development: Getting to the root of positive forms of leadership. The Leadership Quarterly, 16(3), 315-338. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.leaqua.2005.03.001Ego and LeadershipVera, D., & Rodriguez-Lopez, A. (2004). "Strategic virtues: Humility as a source of competitive advantage." Organizational Dynamics, 33(4), 393-408. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.orgdyn.2004.09.006Imposter Syndrome ResearchClance, P. R., & Imes, S. A. (1978). "The imposter phenomenon in high achieving women: Dynamics and therapeutic intervention." Psychotherapy: Theory, Research & Practice, 15(3), 241-247. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0086006________________________________________Additional ResourcesBiblical Language ReferenceAgathosune (ἀγαθωσύνη): Greek word for "goodness" in Galatians 5:22, conveying active, moral excellence and virtueStrong, J. (2007). Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. Hendrickson Publishers. https://www.biblestudytools.com/lexicons/greek/nas/agathosune.html Explore ethical leadership frameworks:Center for Ethical Leadershiphttps://ethicalleadership.org________________________________________Connect with Dr. Phenessa💡 Website: EMSightGlobal.com📸 Instagram: @DrPhenessa💼 LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/phenessagray/✉️ Email: info@emsightglobal.com ________________________________________Love this episode?⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts🔗 Share with a leader who needs this message🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episodeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/love-light-leadership-podcast--6730707/support.
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    16 mins