Drew Brown is an award-winning and Juno-nominated musician, producer, podcaster, photographer, social justice & anti-racist advocate, craft beer enthusiast, bourbon lover, storyteller, and all-around incredible human. His vulnerability and warm heart attract everyone he meets, and his tireless efforts to humanize every person and disarm hate with love are his daily pursuits. He also has a side project under the moniker Hymns For The Architect – in which he creates music for spiritual practices and the seasons of the soul. When he isn’t recording, performing, and producing, you can find him gracing the open mics, walking the protest lines, inspiring neighbourliness, speaking out in interviews + podcasts, and posting awareness, soulfulness, and silliness on Instagram. Thankfully, Drew Brown can honestly say he did not write this bio.

Sara Cunningham is an author, activist, and founder of the non-profit organization Free Mom Hugs. Her journey is a surprising one that began in conservative Oklahoma, when her son, Parker, came out as gay. As a woman of faith, Sara wrestled with the news until she began to study, research, and reconcile the two worlds. This journey resulted in her book How We Sleep at Night. She found herself on a journey “from the church to the Pride parade,” falling in love with the LGBTQIA+ community. In the wake of beautiful glitter-covered hugs and heart-breaking horror stories, the mission of Free Mom Hugs began. Simple acts of love and acceptance turned into a viral sensation, and Sara knew she had the opportunity to lead impactful change. Free Mom Hugs is now a movement across the country and the world.

Adam Harris grew up as an Evangelical Christian and experienced a difficult process of deconstruction while in undergrad and full-time ministry. This journey helped him better understand the necessary stages of faith people may experience, which has enabled him to help others who may be having a crisis of faith or reexamining it. He is currently a Pastor in Hendersonville, TN at a church called Godwhy. This unique and fully affirming community seeks to hold a balance between God, tradition, questions, and higher education to create a Christian community that is adequately equipped for the 21st century. He holds an undergraduate degree in Theological Studies from Oral Roberts University, a Master’s in Theological Studies from Vanderbilt University, and is currently working on his Doctorate of Leadership in Global Perspectives at Portland Seminary.

Bryan Sirchio is one of the founders of the Convergence Music Project (www.convergencemp.com), a digital source of new worship music characterized by progressive/expansive theology, inclusive language, social justice, spiritual growth, and honoring the well-being of the earth. He is author of the book, The 6 Marks of Progressive Christian Worship Music. Bryan is also a singer/songwriter, recording artist, curriculum creator, ordained UCC minister, and pastor of McFarland United Church of Christ in McFarland, WI (just outside Madison). He’s also founder of Haiti Allies, a non-profit that focuses on education, feeding people, and creating jobs among the poorest of the poor in Haiti. Despite the serious nature of much of his work, Bryan loves to goof around, not take himself too seriously, have great conversations, meet new people, and enjoy life. So don’t hesitate to approach him if any of this piques your curiosity!

All these and more!

Sarah McCammon is an NPR National Political Correspondent, co-host of the NPR Politics Podcast, and an award-winning author. Her reporting spans America’s political, social, and cultural divides, with a focus on issues like abortion policy and the influence of the religious right. McCammon’s work, which includes coverage of significant elections and the overturning of Roe v. Wade, has earned her accolades such as the 2023 Edward R. Murrow Award. Her upcoming book, The Exvangelicals, delves into the politicization of the white evangelical church and the resulting departure from the movement.

Aline Defiglia is a licensed psychotherapist and coach. Her practice specializes in mind and body healing modalities and all-around, experiential skill building for crafting a vibrant life. Aline has been a long-time attendee and co-creator at the Goose. She founded and nurtures the on-going evolution of the Relating Arts Tent experiences and joyfully schemes with fellow facilitators, healers, and mischief makers of The Grove. Her current (ahem) passions include integrating conscious sexuality information and experiences into deconstructing Christian spaces. Along with her 5-year-old son, Max, Aline lives and plays in Chattanooga, TN. On any given day, you might find her going on adventures with her son, hiking, riding horses, traveling, out on the water, dancing, hosting community events at her house, or reading one of the many books piled on her nightstand.

Ray Waters is the Founding Pastor of The Village Church, a progressive Christian church located in South Atlanta. Raised evangelical, Ray led The Village to full inclusion in 2009 and performed his first same-sex wedding ceremony in 2011.
Ray has gained the reputation of being the pastor to people who have no pastor. His style is conversational, entertaining, and authentic.
Ray lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife, Jane, his best friend. They are the proud parents of three grown children and eight beautiful grandchildren, who affectionately call them Big and Mimi.

Brit Barron is a celebrated speaker, teacher, and author of “Worth It,” known for her advocacy and engaging workshops that emphasize transformative storytelling in various settings including higher education and non-profits. Her work encourages people and organizations across the country to explore and improve the narratives they create about themselves and others. Brit enjoys life in Southern California with her partner Sami, their dog Charles Barkley, and numerous beloved houseplants, valuing both deep, honest conversations and the daily pursuit of joy and fun.

Sanseria Murray, experienced by many as Mama Star, lives to awaken, ignite, heal, and propel everyone she encounters through her words, her workshops, and her embraces. Sanseria (she/they) is a word nerd and a storyteller with deep conviction that the only way to our collective liberation is by living with a transformative and restorative, radical love ethic. Sanseria teaches middle school theatre arts, hosts workshops and retreats, and spends their time writing, creating, loving, laughing and learning what it means to lean into rest, especially as a Black, Queer person.

Mitchell Gold is perhaps best known as Cofounder of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams home furnishings but is also widely known as an advocate to end religion-based bigotry aka white supremacy. His advocacy focus is on motivating non-affirming religions to change their teachings and in simple words, to take ‘homosexuality off the sin list.’ Mitchell has been widely featured in the media including CBS Sunday Morning, Wall Street Journal and, Architectural Digest. He serves on the NC Daycare Commission as a Gubernatorial appointee and Governor Cooper’s NC Business Council.

“The Walking Pastor” Judy Peterson was terminated from her eleven-year tenured position as campus Pastor at North Park U. of Chicago in 2019 because she officiated a same-sex wedding. Earlier in her career, her faith came into focus as she set out on a spiritual journey. She walked across the United States from coast to coast in a quest to know what it means to “walk with God.” While she understands and appreciates the process of deconstruction, she prefers to call it composting. Today, she is founder and President of Haecceitas Inc. designed “to create spaces where those who feel disconnected from their faith might (re)discover a God who delights in each and everyone making a space for themselves in close proximity to the Divine.”

hot glue & the gun craft transformative, interactive theater-rock! Founding members Carrie Klein & joEL McGlynn met serving seafood and brunch to hungry upper west siders in New York City. At first irritated by each other, they then became friends in the brunch trenches, and then, in an act of ordinary mysticism, simply decided to spend as many days as possible together. They co-formed hot glue & the gun to explore the GLUEY intersections of artistry & community. They invite our co-creative participants to infuse their song, story, and assemblage art with the broken, beautiful pieces of their sacred selves.

Karen Swallow Prior, Ph.D., is a professor and acclaimed author with titles such as “The Evangelical Imagination” (2023) and “On Reading Well” (2018). She contributes to publications including The New York Times and The Atlantic, writes a monthly column for Religion News Service, and has roles as Contributing Editor for Comment, founding member of The Pelican Project, and Senior Fellow at the Trinity Forum. She also co-edited “Cultural Engagement: A Crash Course in Contemporary Issues” (2019) and hosted the “Jane and Jesus” podcast, establishing herself as a prominent voice in both academic and public spheres.

Julian J.Kwest DeShazier, an Emmy Award-winning musician and national speaker, has been featured on major media outlets like ABC, CBS, and FOX, and on Dr. Maya Angelou’s Oprah & Friends radio program. As a Chicago native and pastor of University Church, he actively campaigns for social issues, including a trauma center on Chicago’s South Side, while teaching at the University of Chicago Divinity School and McCormick Theological Seminary. His contributions extend to documentaries such as “The Line,” addressing poverty and violence, and he is a regular contributor to Sojourners and Huffington Post.

Rob Schenck, a former prominent figure in the U.S. evangelical movement and now a Christian progressive, has been active in religious circles for nearly 50 years, with 35 years as a religious right activist. Ordained and trained within evangelical institutions, he has shifted to critiquing his religious tribe through works like his memoir, “Costly Grace: An Evangelical Minister’s Rediscovery of Faith, Hope and Love.” Schenck’s transformation and critiques of evangelical gun culture and Christian nationalism are highlighted in Emmy-winning “The Armor of Light” by Abigail Disney and Rob Reiner’s “God & Country.”

Rev. Jonah P. Overton (they/them) is a queer and trans community organizer and the founding pastor of Zao MKE Church in Milwaukee, which began in their living room and now occupies a historic church building. Passionate about making scripture accessible and relevant, Jonah hosts two podcasts, “Jonah & the Peacock” and “Christian Queeries,” exploring faith through an inclusive and trauma-informed lens. They cherish leading a church that empowers historically marginalized voices and enjoy life with their spouse, Cameron, and daughter, Micah, dreaming of paddle boarding and reading in their scarce free time.

Ken Medema, blind from birth, has been writing songs since the 1970s and performs concerts, leads workshops, retreats and conferences. He will improvise after speakers at Wild Goose and at 80 years old he’s going strong and loves the road.

Michael Morrell is the collaborating author, with Fr. Richard Rohr, on ‘The Divine Dance: The Trinity and Your Transformation,’ founder of Wisdom Camp, and a founding organizer of Wild Goose Festival.  He lives in Asheville, North Carolina, with his two kiddos. You can read Michael’s ongoing exploration of Spirit, Culture, and Permaculture at MikeMorrell.org.

Multi aka Kagan Parker is a certified mindfulness instructor, a diversity educator, a singer/songwriter and poet. They use their diverse background to promote spiritual introspection, unapologetic authenticity, and healing within self and community. This year they will be helping co-create the Relating Arts Venue as well as performing on the Commons Stage.

Bec Cranford is a Bapticostal Misfit floating in the Mystic, Interfaith, and Spiritual Waters. She’s a long time abolitionist, advocate for those #unhoused, and believes in harm reduction. Bec also is a spiritual director. She has served in various amazing organizations, including Wild Goose Festival, Candler School of Theology, Policing Alternatives and Diversion, and many more. Bec resides in West Georgia and likes walking in the woods.

Bryan Johnson leads the Trinity United Church of Christ Choir Ensemble in Chicago, known for their powerful performances that blend gospel music with social justice themes. This year Bryan is co-leading the Worship Music Workshop , an all-day Pre-festival event on Thursday July 11.

Dr. Su Yon Pak, currently serving as the Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean at Union Theological Seminary, has a rich background in field education, chaplaincy, and spiritual direction, with a focus on contemplative practices, chaplaincy education, and women’s leadership. Having immigrated from South Korea to NYC at a young age and later returning with a doctorate from the Teachers College – Union Theological Seminary program, her work embodies a commitment to integrative, embodied, and critical pedagogies.

Stan Mitchell, a pioneering pastor and advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion, founded GracePointe Church in Tennessee, gaining national attention in 2015 for his support of same-sex marriage and challenging traditional evangelical views on sexuality. Through his work and as a sought-after speaker, he promotes a message of love, acceptance, and equality, bridging theological divides and fostering welcoming communities for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.

Angela Spearman is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. She founded a private practice The Center For Well-Being, LLC. serving adults & children impacted by addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and other mental and relational wellness concerns. She will be co-leading “Don’t Skip Recess,” an all-day pre-festival event on Thursday, July 11.

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.