The Business of Belonging: Leading Justly In the Places We're Planted with David Swanson (February 2025)

11 Ten Leadership

David and Rob engage in a profound conversation with David Swanson, an author and pastor with a deep commitment to justice and reconciliation. They explore the themes of Swanson's book, Rediscipling the White Church, and its impact over the past five years.

The discussion delves into the current cultural backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and the importance of understanding the deeper roots of greed and fear in addressing systemic injustices. Swanson emphasizes the need for leaders to embody the principles of the kingdom of God, focusing on abundance, playfulness, and a deep connection to their local places.

The conversation also highlights the crucial role of repair in achieving wholeness and justice and the significance of mustard seeds and yeast as metaphors for small but impactful actions. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of knowing one's 'why' in the face of opposition and staying committed to living out kingdom values.

00:00 Introduction to the Kingdom of God

00:46 Welcome to the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast

01:38 Snow Day Realities

02:31 Introducing David Swanson

02:59 David Swanson's Journey and Impact

08:11 The Cultural Moment of 2020

15:59 Understanding the Backlash

24:46 Belonging to Our Place and Story

26:53 Challenges of Justice Work

28:50 Transformative Leadership and Cultural Competence

36:25 The Theology of Repair

41:48 Small Acts of Repair and Faithfulness

47:53 The Importance of Knowing Your Why

50:26 Closing Remarks and Resources

Resources

• Rediscipling the White Church: From Cheap Diversity to True Solidarity
• Plundered: The Tangled Roots of Racial and Environmental Injustice
• David W. Swanson's (Occasional) Newsletter