Season 2, Episode 6: Resilience of Leadership: How Kathleen Colussy Inspires Marketplace Leaders to Stand Firm Authentically

Ever find yourself struggling to separate who you are from what you do?

Or do you wonder how to lead with integrity when your faith doesn’t fit into a corporate box?

In today’s episode, I sit down with Professor Emeritus Kathleen Colussy, a powerhouse of wisdom, creativity, and Kingdom insight.

With over 40 years of experience bridging the gap between art, education, and business, Kathleen offers a fresh perspective on what it means to lead with resilience—without losing yourself in the process.

Part one of a two-part conversation, listen as we unpack identity, calling, and the quiet strength it takes to live out your faith in the marketplace—whether you're bold about it or walking it out behind the scenes

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The difference between burdens, assignments, and callings—and how to discern yours.

• Why separating the sacred and secular in business might be doing more harm than good.

• How Nehemiah’s story gives us a blueprint for resilient, faith-filled leadership.

• What it means to align your identity with your Creator—not just your career.

• How to lead without using “Christian branding”—and still reflect godly values.

Key Moments & Timestamps: 

⏳ 4:55 – Resilient Leadership Lessons from Nehemiah's Story 

⏳ 9:27 – Understanding Identity, Burdens, Assignments, and Callings

⏳ 17:28 – A Fashion Designer’s Journey from Fame to Teaching

⏳ 18:57 – Balancing Faith and Business Without Alienating Others

Notable Quotes from Kathleen Colussy:

• “We have to spend time with the Lord because we don’t know what’s ahead.”
• “What we do is not our identity. Our identity is who we are. The biggest challenge folks have is they can’t distinguish what they do from who they are.”
• “A vision comes with provision if it’s from the Lord.”
• “If you're really caught up with introducing yourself by your business and what you do, you may want to sit and talk with the Lord.”

Resources Mentioned:

📚 Books by Kathleen Colussy

• Fashion Undressed: Did Jesus Wear a Designer Robe?

• Resilience of Leadership & Identity Theft (slated for release Fall 2025)

🌐 Colussy's Website

💬 Facebook

💬 Instagram 

Continue the Conversation:

What resonated most with you from this episode? Let’s talk about it! Email Joy at info [at] joycapps [dot] com—we would love to hear your thoughts and continue the conversation.

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