About Soul Stories
About Soul Stories
The Soul Stories podcast is premised on the idea that everyone loves a good story. The show's creator and host, Rev. Dr. Shelley Best explains, "Storytelling is an art form that everyone can embrace. As we tell our stories we discover something new about ourselves . . . When we share our stories we create a different type of intimacy. The goal is sacred listening."
The Soul Stories podcast invites you to do the internal work of self-discovery as we open ourselves to the sacred possibility that our stories will reveal that which is deep, honest, and true. Join us.
Rev. Dr. Shelley D. Best, is the host of Soul Stories. She is a nationally recognized leader in faith-based community development and the new pastor of Redeemer A.M.E. Zion Church of Plainville, CT.
For the past fifteen years, she has served as the president and CEO of The Conference of Churches [TCC] in Hartford and is widely credited for its revitalization through the creation of The 224 EcoSpace a 2.5 million dollar social enterprise “where change makers work create and lead.” Through her leadership the organization has launched a number of nationally recognized initiatives, bringing American Reinvestment Act dollars to Connecticut. In 2016, she was invited to the White House to present a white paper on her innovative model of ministry.
The host of the WRCH 100.5 FM Sunday morning radio talk show “Rich Answers,” Rev. Best served on the Hartford School Board and is currently an adjunct at Hartford Seminary. Rev. Best has a doctorate degree in ministry from Hartford Seminary, master’s degree from Hartford Seminary as well as a master’s in divinity (M.Div.) from Yale University. A native of Norfolk, Conn., she earned a B.A. in communication from Central Connecticut State University.
Dr. Best is a visual artist who travels internationally as a human rights and interfaith ambassador. With a passion for yoga found after the age of 50, she devotes her practice to the mission of personal and community transformation.