Heather Curry

Rev. Dr. Dietra Wise Baker, serving as Assistant Professor of Community Engagement and Director of Contextual Education at Eden Theological Seminary, is a certified anti-racism trainer and a leader in faith-based community organizing. With expertise in church planting, youth ministry, and social justice movements, Dr. Baker’s educational background includes degrees from Howard University, Eden Theological Seminary, and Aquinas Institute of Theology, alongside her role as a mother to her son Cornell.

Chris Kratzer is a pastor and author of 25 years. His transition away from conservative Evangelicalism has served thousands around the world in discovering a faith that doesn’t require one to lose their mind, heart, and self in the process. Chris purposes his writing on being a voice for the spiritually oppressed that they may know they are loved, affirmed, and not alone, while also calling the evils of modern, conservative Christianity out of the shadows. Chris is married with four children.

The Rev. Chebon Kernell, an ordained Elder in the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference, has notably served as the executive secretary of Native American and Indigenous Ministries, collaborating with international bodies like the World Council of Churches and the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. His efforts focused on fostering improved relationships between the United Methodist Church and Indigenous communities through dialogue, study, and actions of repentance for historical injustices.

Colby Martin has spent two decades navigating the realms of evangelical and post-evangelical, progressive Christianity, authoring books like “UnClobber” and “The Shift” to help people find liberation from harmful religious doctrines. After founding and leading Sojourn Grace Collective in San Diego, he now focuses on reaching a global audience through digital platforms and itinerant preaching, emphasizing the importance of openness and the belief that everyone is inherently beloved by God just as they are.

Spencer LaJoye, an East Coast singer/songwriter with Midwest roots, creates queer indie folk music that resonates deeply through their debut album, “Shadow Puppets,” which explores themes of childhood, shame, and desire. They will return this year, bringing their unique blend of music, storytelling, and emotional connection.

Obery Hendricks, a distinguished African American biblical scholar and social activist, is celebrated for his critical examination of religion in American politics and economy, notably in his book “Christians Against Christianity.” He will be sharing his profound insights on the intersection of faith and social justice, engaging us with his thought-provoking analysis and prophetic intellectualism.

Rev. Dr. Alexia Salvatierra, Academic Dean of the Centro Latino at Fuller Theological Seminary and expert in immigration, faith-rooted organizing, and cross-cultural ministry, is a long-time Wild Goose veteran known for her impactful speaking, training, and workshops aimed at fostering holistic Christian communities.

Doug Pagitt, an American author, pastor, and social activist known for his role in progressive Christianity and as executive director of Vote Common Good, frequently appears in national media and at speaking events. He’ll be engaging in conversations about faith and social action and sharing insights from his latest book, “Outdoing Jesus.”

Brian McLaren, a Wild Goose founder and renowned author, speaker, and advocate for progressive Christianity, focuses on fostering a just and generous faith across all religions for the common good, with recent works including “Faith After Doubt” and “Do I Stay Christian?”. He’ll be sharing his insights and experiences, engaging us in discussions on doubt, faith, and the future of Christianity in a world facing challenges.

Sarah Heath, an ordained United Methodist clergywoman with a multifaceted career as an actress, author, podcaster, and more, leads a unique church in Southern California aimed at embracing all humans and integrates spirituality with daily life through her work, including her books “What’s Your Story?” and “The Authenticity Challenge.” She’ll be bringing her inclusive message and dynamic storytelling to Wild Goose Festival, encouraging us to explore our narratives and the intersection of faith with everyday life.

David Gushee, a preeminent Christian Ethics scholar with contributions including “Kingdom Ethics” and “Changing Our Mind,” holds distinguished positions at Mercer University and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, and is recognized globally for his influential books and activism within the post-evangelical movement. He’ll share his expertise and insights, and engage with us on ethical living and the intersection of faith and social justice.

Ruby Sales

Ruby Sales is a nationally-recognized human-rights activist, and public theologian. She has made significant contributions to civil rights, social justice, and community building – beginning in the 1960s as a student freedom fighter and continuing through her work with the SpiritHouse Project and other initiatives aimed at fostering racial, economic, and social justice. She will be sharing her wealth of experience and insights, inspiring us with her dedication to activism and advocacy for marginalized communities.

AJ Levine, a distinguished professor known for her extensive work in New Testament and Jewish Studies, including notable books like “The Misunderstood Jew” and “Short Stories by Jesus,” is a prominent figure in Jewish-Christian relations. She will be sharing her insights with us, furthering her commitment to interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Jim Wallis, a Wild Goose veteran and an influential American theologian, writer, and advocate for peace and social justice, is the founder of Sojourners magazine and a prominent figure in the Christian left, currently holding the position of inaugural Archbishop Desmond Tutu Chair in Faith and Justice at Georgetown University. He will be bringing his insights on faith and justice to Wild Goose, contributing to the event’s dialogue on spirituality and activism.

Flamy Grant, a trailblazing drag queen and musician from Western North Carolina, whose debut record “Bible Belt Baby” topped the iTunes Christian Charts, uses her music and storytelling to highlight the queer spiritual journey and themes of resilience and recovery from religious trauma. Flamy will be showcasing her talents and sharing her empowering message with us this summer!

Rev. Jacqui Lewis, Ph.D., a dynamic author, activist, and preacher known for her leadership at New York’s Middle Church and advocacy for a just, inclusive society, will join us again this year, bringing her passion for antiracism, social justice, and love. Through her extensive work in urban ministry, public theology, and national media, Lewis has become a powerful voice for racial equality, economic justice, and LGBTQ+ rights, aiming to inspire and educate festival-goers on creating inclusive communities.