Dr. Renee M. Scott, author of How Can They Hear Without a Preacher: Intersectionality of Gender, Sexuality, and Faith, shares her journey of reconciling her Christian faith with her LGBTQ+ identity. After decades in higher education as a college president and VP of Student Success, Renee returned to the classroom to teach the next generation of leaders. In this episode, she discusses the evolving landscape of higher education, the importance of social and emotional skills, and how young people navigate work-life balance in a hyperconnected world.



Renee opens up about her personal story of realizing her sexuality while maintaining a meaningful relationship with God, exploring the tension between church teachings and her authentic self. She discusses the challenges of coming out, ending a marriage, and facing societal judgment, while emphasizing that faith and authenticity can coexist. Through her book and her experiences, she highlights lessons in empathy, leadership, and personal growth, encouraging listeners to live authentically and take small, deliberate steps toward a fulfilling life. Renee also offers actionable advice, including reflecting daily on wisdom from the book of Proverbs to build character, resilience, and meaningful relationships. This episode is a deep, honest conversation about identity, faith, leadership, and living authentically.



Quotes:



“90% of what we worry about never happens. The other 10% is never as bad as we imagine.”



“God knew me before I was even formed in the womb; understanding that changed how I live my faith and my truth.”



“Leadership is everywhere. You don’t have to be a VP to lead; you can lead through example and empowerment.”



“Be true to yourself, no matter the consequences; authenticity is the path to real happiness.”



Resources:




Connect with Dr. Renee M Scott on LinkedIn



How Can They Hear Without a Preacher: Intersectionality of Gender, Sexuality, and Faith on Amazon