About Elías Ortega:

Dr. Elías Ortega is committed to building organizational systems in which people, especially those underrepresented in our society, can thrive. He uses the lenses of religious ethics, spirituality, and theological reflection to foster change in higher education, non-profit organizations, and religious institutions. His academic and community work is shaped by the aspiration that centering the lives of those most impacted by systems of oppression is necessary for liberation. Dr. Ortega believes that lifting the Universalist heritage can inspire us to do the necessary work to realize a better tomorrow. Currently, he serves as the president of Meadville Lombard Theological School in Chicago and Professor of Religion, Ethics, and Leadership.

In this episode, Kevin and Elías Ortega discuss:

• Listening as a leadership superpower
• The role of mentorship in shaping character and career
• Leading institutions through crisis and cultural change
• Stewardship, fundraising, and ethical responsibility
• Rehumanizing relationships in a digital age

Key Takeaways:

• Listening is more than a communication skill—it’s a discipline that allows leaders to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively.
• Purpose is often discovered gradually; transferable skills and curiosity can guide a leader across different roles without losing their core identity.
• Mentorship doesn’t just open doors—it shapes character, teaches professional ethics, and prepares leaders for environments they haven’t yet entered.
• Social change moves at the speed of relationships, not urgency, and sustainable transformation requires patience, trust, and generational thinking.
• Institutions carry both a justice-centered mission and an ethical obligation to steward the trust and resources placed in their care.

"Social change is generational. It takes time, and social change happens really at the speed of our relationships." – Elías Ortega

Connect with Elías Ortega:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elias-ortega-phd/

Connect with Kevin Neal:

Website: https://drkdneal.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS

https://www.amazon.com/Guided-Greatness-Mentorship-Developing-professionals-ebook/dp/B0FGBH1VNS

Email: coachkd63@gmail.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63