#007: “The Moment of Lift” by Melinda Gates (with guest host, David Hayward, The NakedPastor)

Michelle and guest host, David Hayward, discuss The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World by Melinda Gates. Their conversation explores gender equality, female empowerment, and more.

From the back cover: "How can we summon a moment of lift for human beings―and especially for women? Because when you lift up women, you lift up humanity. For the last twenty years, Melinda Gates has been on a mission to find solutions for people with the most urgent needs, wherever they live. Throughout this journey, one thing has become increasingly clear to her: If you want to lift society up, you need to stop keeping women down. In this moving and compelling book, Melinda shares lessons she’s learned from the inspiring people she’s met during her work and travels around the world. As she writes in the introduction, “That is why I had to write this book―to share the stories of people who have given focus and urgency to my life. I want all of us to see ways we can lift women up where we live.” Melinda’s unforgettable narrative is backed by startling data as she presents the issues that most need our attention―from child marriage to lack of access to contraceptives to gender inequity in the workplace. And, for the first time, she writes about her personal life and the road to equality in her own marriage. Throughout, she shows how there has never been more opportunity to change the world―and ourselves. Writing with emotion, candor, and grace, she introduces us to remarkable women and shows the power of connecting with one another. When we lift others up, they lift us up, too."

About David: "David Hayward is the NakedPastor. He has a Masters in Theological Studies from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, a Diploma in Religious Studies and Ministry from McGill University in Montreal, and a Diploma in University Teaching from the University of New Brunswick. He served the church as a pastor for 30 years and left the ministry in 2010. Like all graffiti artists, NakedPastor uses words and images to challenge the status quo and offer hope for those who struggle and suffer under it. He founded and facilitates The Lasting Supper, an online community for those looking for a safe alternative to church. He coaches people who long for spiritual freedom and independence."