Facing Fear and Rejection: Bethany Barr Phillips on Leading Creatively | Ep 202

Chasing Elephants Podcast

Bethany Barr Phillips delves into the concept of leading through the lens of an artist. She begins by exploring what it means to be an artist, which involves conceptualizing and expressing emotion and imagination, as well as innovating, shifting, dreaming, and taking risks. Phillips posits that the ultimate artist is God, in whose image humans are created, allowing art to reside within every individual. Bethany identifies fear of failure and rejection as significant barriers to adopting an artist's perspective. Using David's confrontation with Goliath, she illustrates the importance of leading in new ways without fear. She differentiates between the fear of failure and the fear of rejection, explaining that rejection stems from a fear of not being accepted. Throughout the episode, Phillips shares her personal journey from growing up in South Mississippi to becoming a worship leader. She highlights moments that shaped her identity and journey in life and even recounts a personal story about her chickens, linking it to risk-taking and leadership. Bethany encourages the audience to reflect on what it means to be an artist, identify what may hinder them from embracing an artistic perspective, and consider how they can lead creatively and innovatively. She advocates for pioneering through the lens of an artist, drawing inspiration from biblical figures like Moses and the three boys in the fire. Phillips enumerates characteristics of a pioneer and stresses the importance of collaboration, referencing the diversity of Jesus' disciples. She urges leaders to overcome fear and rejection, using the example of the Wright brothers as unconventional pioneers who successfully built an airplane. In conclusion, Phillips introduces the "three P's" for leading as an artist: pioneer, persevere, and pivot. She discusses the significance of maintaining core messages while being willing to adjust methods as needed. Using biblical examples like Noah and Ruth, she reiterates the importance of obedience and pioneering. The episode ends with a heartfelt prayer by Bethany, expressing gratitude to God, seeking guidance on leading artistically, and asking for the grace to persevere and partner with others.