11 in 11 with Bishop Deon K. Johnson

Bishop Johnson sits down with Dr. Heidi Moore, Executive Director of Missourians to Abolish the Death Penalty, for a powerful conversation on justice, dignity, and redemption. Drawing from her years working inside Missouri’s correctional system and alongside justice-impacted communities, Dr. Moore reflects on the human realities of incarceration, the moral questions surrounding capital punishment, and the role faith communities can play in building a more compassionate and restorative vision of justice.

Bishop Johnson sits down with Dr. Heidi Moore, Executive Director of Missourians to Abolish the Death Penalty, for a powerful conversation on justice, dignity, and redemption. Drawing from her years working inside Missouri’s correctional system and alongside justice-impacted communities, Dr. Moore reflects on the human realities of incarceration, the moral questions surrounding capital punishment, and the role faith communities can play in building a more compassionate and restorative vision of justice.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson sits down with DeMarco Davidson of Metropolitan Congregations United (MCU) for a grounded and hope-filled conversation about faith in action. Together, they explore what it means to live out discipleship beyond the walls of the church, where prayer meets practice and reflection becomes movement.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson sits down with DeMarco Davidson of Metropolitan Congregations United (MCU) for a grounded and hope-filled conversation about faith in action. Together, they explore what it means to live out discipleship beyond the walls of the church, where prayer meets practice and reflection becomes movement.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson sits down with producer AhSa-Ti Nu for a thoughtful and honest conversation about recent events involving law enforcement. They reflect on the tragic shooting of Renee Nicole Good, and talk about the grief and anger many people are feeling, the conflicting narratives that often emerge after these kinds of incidents, and the deeper systems and histories that shape policing and justice in the United States. The conversation invites listeners to wrestle with hard questions about truth, accountability, and what faithful witness looks like in moments like this.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson holds a reflective conversation with AhSa-Ti Nu, addressing current social and political issues, coping mechanisms, and the broader historical and spiritual context shaping today’s challenges.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson holds a reflective conversation with AhSa-Ti Nu, addressing current social and political issues, coping mechanisms, and the broader historical and spiritual context shaping today’s challenges.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson reflects a bit on what he gleaned during his time away on sabbatical. 

In this episode, Bishop Johnson talks with The Reverend Isaiah “Shaneequa” Brokenleg (she/her), who is an enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe (Sicangu Nation).  She is an Episcopal priest in the diocese of South Dakota. Shaneequa is the Staff Officer for Racial Reconciliation at the Episcopal Church, and is passionate about social justice and working to end the structural oppression/violence that hurts us all.  Shaneequa strives to live out her calling through her work, our church, her art, and in her life.  

In this episode, Bishop Johnson talks with The Reverend Isaiah “Shaneequa” Brokenleg (she/her), who is an enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe (Sicangu Nation).  She is an Episcopal priest in the diocese of South Dakota. Shaneequa is the Staff Officer for Racial Reconciliation at the Episcopal Church, and is passionate about social justice and working to end the structural oppression/violence that hurts us all.  Shaneequa strives to live out her calling through her work, our church, her art, and in her life.  

In this episode, Bishop Johnson speaks with Rev. Dr. Jason Fout about his vision for theological education as a blend of deep scholarship, spiritual formation, and practical ministry. From innovative courses like “Learning from London” to cultivating “scholar practitioners,” Dr. Fout highlights how Bexley Seabury Seminary equips leaders to serve a diverse, evolving church with faith, adaptability, and fresh perspectives.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson speaks with Rev. Dr. Jason Fout about his vision for theological education as a blend of deep scholarship, spiritual formation, and practical ministry. From innovative courses like “Learning from London” to cultivating “scholar practitioners,” Dr. Fout highlights how Bexley Seabury Seminary equips leaders to serve a diverse, evolving church with faith, adaptability, and fresh perspectives.

Bishop Johnson sits down with AhSa-Ti Nu for a delightful and insightful conversation about life, faith, and… chickens! From early morning feedings to unexpected lessons in patience and care, Bishop Johnson shares what he's learned from tending to his family’s flock. You might be surprised by the spiritual truths hiding in the henhouse. Tune in for laughter, reflection, and a few feathery metaphors along the way.

In this powerful three-part episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Dr. Catherine Meeks on the intersections of healing, activism, and education. 

In this powerful three-part episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Dr. Catherine Meeks on the intersections of healing, activism, and education.

In this powerful three-part episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Dr. Catherine Meeks on the intersections of healing, activism, and education.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Rev. Mary Nelson, Transitional Conference Minister of the UCC Missouri Mid-South Conference. 

In this episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Rev. Mary Nelson, Transitional Conference Minister of the UCC Missouri Mid-South Conference.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson reflects on the meaning of sabbatical as he prepares to venture off on his own sabbatical. 

In this episode, Bishop Johnson reflects on a call for finding joy in these uncertain times. 

In this episode, Bishop Johnson reflects on what it means to stand in conviction. "There will be times in our lives when we have to stand up for compassion and kindness, justice and dignity..."

In this episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Glenn Svetnicka, Associate Director of Outdoor Ministries with the UCC, Missouri Mi-South Conference, to explore the renewed interest in outdoor activities and their deeper meaning. They talk about the resurgence of camping and retreats, how outdoor ministries are evolving to meet today’s needs, and what it takes to build sustainable, impactful outdoor programs for the future.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Glenn Svetnicka, Associate Director of Outdoor Ministries with the UCC, Missouri Mi-South Conference, to explore the renewed interest in outdoor activities and their deeper meaning. They talk about the resurgence of camping and retreats, how outdoor ministries are evolving to meet today’s needs, and what it takes to build sustainable, impactful outdoor programs for the future.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson shares his thoughts on why we should not take the Bible literally, but instead be open to many interpretations.

In the episode, Bishop Johnson calls us to be a sanctuary "where all God's people, not just some, but all of God's people, can be seen, heard and loved unconditionally."

In this episode, Bishop Johnson reflects on the importance of sharing the stories of Black History in America. 

In this episode, Bishop Johnson offers an insightful reflection on In this episode, Bishop Johnson provides a profound reflection on Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and emphasizes the significance of being a dreamer.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson reflects on the past year and seeks to offer hope for the new year. Bishop Johnson reminds us that we are in God, and God is with us. 

In this episode, Bishop Johnson sits down with AhSa-Ti Nu for an open and heartfelt conversation about the current election. Together, they explore their thoughts and feelings during this pivotal moment, offering perspectives that inspire reflection and dialogue. 

In this episode, Bishop Johnson pauses to honor our Veterans. We give thanks for your service.  

In the episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Safe Church, Safe Communities Coordinators, The Rev. Erin Pickersgill, and Jillian Smith on what Safe Church is and the importance of safe church training throughout our communities and churches. 

In the episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Safe Church, Safe Communities Coordinators, The Rev. Erin Pickersgill, and Jillian Smith on what Safe Church is and the importance of safe church training throughout our communities and churches. 

In this episode, Bishop Johnson chats with NYT bestselling author Cole Authur Riley on her book Black Liturgies. Author of This Here Flesh and Black Liturgies, her writing has been featured in The Atlantic, Guernica, The Boston Globe, and The Washington Post. Cole is also the creator of Black Liturgies, a space that integrates spiritual practice with Black emotion, Black literature, and the Black body, and a project of The Center for Dignity and Contemplation, where she serves as Curator.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson chats with NYT bestselling author Cole Authur Riley on her book Black Liturgies. Author of This Here Flesh and Black Liturgies, her writing has been featured in The Atlantic, Guernica, The Boston Globe, and The Washington Post. Cole is also the creator of Black Liturgies, a space that integrates spiritual practice with Black emotion, Black literature, and the Black body, and a project of The Center for Dignity and Contemplation, where she serves as Curator. 

In this episode,  Bishop Johnson and AhSa-Ti Nu dive into the journey of seeking answers. Together, they explore our personal responsibility in the search for truth and share insights on how we can better discern what’s right or wrong. Whether you're questioning life’s big mysteries or simply curious about finding clarity, this episode is sure to inspire and challenge your thinking.

*Disclaimer: This episode contains explicit content in the telling of a true story.*  In this powerful episode, Bishop Johnson talks with The Rev. Dr. Gayle Fisher-Stewart, retired Episcopal priest and author of Preaching Black Lives (Matter) and Black and Episcopalian: The Struggle for Inclusion. Fisher-Stewart dives deep into the critical need for churches—and society at large—to address trauma head-on. Her insights on becoming trauma-informed will leave you reflecting on healing, justice, and the role of faith in transformation. 

*Disclaimer: This episode contains explicit content in the telling of a true story.*  In this powerful episode, Bishop Johnson talks with The Rev. Dr. Gayle Fisher-Stewart, retired Episcopal priest and author of Preaching Black Lives (Matter) and Black and Episcopalian: The Struggle for Inclusion. Fisher-Stewart dives deep into the critical need for churches—and society at large—to address trauma head-on. Her insights on becoming trauma-informed will leave you reflecting on healing, justice, and the role of faith in transformation. 

In this episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Bishop Dean Wolfe, Rector of St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church in New York City, on what "radical welcome" means. This discussion explores the depths of what it means to create a genuinely inclusive and welcoming environment and delves into the transformative power of radical welcome and how it can change our communities and our world.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson chats with Bishop Dean Wolfe, Rector of St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church in New York City, on what "radical welcome" means. This discussion explores the depths of what it means to create a genuinely inclusive and welcoming environment and delves into the transformative power of radical welcome and how it can change our communities and our world.

This year, the St. Louis region, the nation, and the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri commemorate a decade since the killing of Michael Brown and the Ferguson Uprisings—an event that ignited a global movement for justice. In this episode, Bishop Johnson engages in a compelling conversation with The Rev. Aaron Rogers, reflecting on the impact of Ferguson and the ripple effects felt around the world. Together, they issue a passionate call to action, reminding us of the vital work that still lies ahead in the pursuit of equality and justice.

This year, the St. Louis region, the nation, and the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri commemorate a decade since the killing of Michael Brown and the Ferguson Uprisings—an event that ignited a global movement for justice. In this episode, Bishop Johnson engages in a compelling conversation with The Rev. Aaron Rogers, reflecting on the impact of Ferguson and the ripple effects felt around the world. Together, they issue a passionate call to action, reminding us of the vital work that still lies ahead in the pursuit of equality and justice.

In this episode Bishop Johnson chats with The Rev. Canon Whitney Rice on her work with Requiem or Renaissance. Requiem or Renaissance is an 18-month discernment and skills-building program process that will help them determine God's call to them: to a Requiem, a holy ending of this congregation's ministry in this location at this time, or a Renaissance, a church re-plant with a new vision.

In this episode Bishop Johnson chats with The Rev. Canon Whitney Rice on her work with Requiem or Renaissance. Requiem or Renaissance is an 18-month discernment and skills-building program process that will help them determine God's call to them: to a Requiem, a holy ending of this congregation's ministry in this location at this time, or a Renaissance, a church re-plant with a new vision.

In this episode Bishop Johnson chats with Bishop Ruth Woodliff-Stanley, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina. Bishop Ruth Woodliff-Stanley discusses her journey as the fifteenth bishop of the historic diocese, and the first woman to serve in the role.

In this episode Bishop Johnson chats with Bishop Ruth Woodliff-Stanley, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina. Bishop Ruth Woodliff-Stanley discusses her journey as the fifteenth bishop of the historic diocese, and the first woman to serve in the role.

In this episode, Bishop Johnson offers a reflection on the need for reconciliation and healing between the church and the LGBTQ+ community. "What does it look like to say we are sorry, help us do better? What does it look like for us to walk the way of Jesus in love and invite others into that journey. Not to transform them, but for us to be fully who we are." 

In this episode Bishop Johnson chats with Walter Naegle, the surviving partner of late American Civil Rights leader Bayard Rustin, and the executive director of the Bayard Rustin Fund, which commemorates Rustin's life, values, and legacy. Bayard Rustin was one of the outstanding human rights proponents and strategists of the modern era. Usually working out of the public spotlight, Rustin’s socioeconomic analysis, commitment to nonviolent social change, and tactical organizing have been integral to the civil rights, pacifists and trade union movements of the mid-20th century.

In this episode Bishop Johnson chats with Walter Naegle, the surviving partner of late American Civil Rights leader Bayard Rustin, and the executive director of the Bayard Rustin Fund, which commemorates Rustin's life, values, and legacy. Bayard Rustin was one of the outstanding human rights proponents and strategists of the modern era. Usually working out of the public spotlight, Rustin’s socioeconomic analysis, commitment to nonviolent social change, and tactical organizing have been integral to the civil rights, pacifists and trade union movements of the mid-20th century.

In this episode Bishop Johnson chats with Walter Naegle, the surviving partner of late American Civil Rights leader Bayard Rustin, and the executive director of the Bayard Rustin Fund, which commemorates Rustin's life, values, and legacy. Bayard Rustin was one of the outstanding human rights proponents and strategists of the modern era. Usually working out of the public spotlights, Rustin’s socioeconomic analysis, commitment to nonviolent social change, and tactical organizing have been integral to the civil rights, pacifists and trade union movements of the mid-20th century.

In this episode Bishop Johnson reflects on Memorial Day and the importance of remembering the stories of those lost.