No.76: Bishop Leah D. Daughtry
Episode Transcript
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What do you get when you combine the spiritual guidance of a pastor, the strategic mind of a political operative, and the grace of a leader who knows how to unite diverse voices?
You get a woman who has shaped not just campaigns, but entire movements.
Welcome back to the "100 Historic Black Women You Should Know By Election Day Series." I’m Shae, a PhD Candidate at Harvard, and today, we’re diving into the remarkable life of Bishop Leah D. Daughtry—a woman whose influence extends from the pulpit to the highest levels of American politics.
Bishop Daughtry is a woman of many talents. Born into a family deeply rooted in both faith and public service, Leah followed in her father’s footsteps as a pastor, but she didn’t stop there. With a keen understanding of the intersection between faith and politics, she became one of the most respected political strategists in the country.
Daughtry’s accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary. She served as the Chief of Staff to Howard Dean at the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and went on to become the CEO of the 2008 and 2016 Democratic National Conventions. She was responsible for orchestrating events that drew global attention and showcased the party’s diversity and unity.
What sets Daughtry apart is her unique ability to bridge the gap between politics and faith. As an ordained minister, she founded Faith in Action, the Democratic Party's outreach program to faith communities. This initiative has been instrumental in engaging religious voters and bringing their concerns to the forefront of political discourse. Daughtry's accomplishments don't stop there. She's the President and CEO of On These Things, LLC, a strategic planning firm that provides expert political and strategic planning advice to a diverse array of clients. Her expertise has been sought after by government officials, non-profit organizations, and corporations alike. She’s a fierce advocate for the inclusion of faith in the political discourse, believing that spiritual leaders can and should have a voice in shaping policy.
Here’s a fun fact you might not know—Bishop Daughtry is also a sought-after speaker and preacher, often invited to share her insights on leadership, faith, and social justice at conferences and churches across the country. And get this—she’s known for blending her political acumen with her spiritual wisdom, making her a unique and powerful voice in both arenas.
Bishop Leah D. Daughtry’s story is a testament to the power of faith, leadership, and the ability to bridge divides. She’s not just a strategist; she’s a visionary who’s helped shape the future of American politics.
If Bishop Leah D. Daughtry’s story inspired you, please take a moment to follow and rate this podcast 5 stars—so more people can hear about these incredible women. And don’t forget to follow me on social media and subscribe to my YouTube channel for more inspiring stories. Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll see you in the next episode!
