Podcast Summary: Becker’s Healthcare Podcast

Episode: Chaplain Leadership, Bioethics, and Inclusive Care with Rev. Inetta A. Reddell
Date: February 23, 2026
Host: Scott Becker
Guest: Rev. Inetta Aurelia Riddell, Pastoral Care Coordinator, Charterhouse at Mayo Clinic Retirement Living; Former President, Association of Professional Chaplains (APC)

Overview

This episode features an insightful conversation with Rev. Inetta Riddell, a pioneering chaplain leader and advocate for inclusive, interfaith spiritual care in healthcare. As the first woman of color to serve as President of the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC), Rev. Riddell discusses her leadership journey, the challenges of fostering diversity, and her vision for the future of chaplaincy. She also shares wisdom for aspiring leaders and highlights the importance of bioethics, legacy, and authentic connection in healthcare spiritual care.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Rev. Riddell’s Background and Motivation for Leadership

[02:30]

• Rev. Riddell was motivated by a desire to amplify diverse voices within APC.
• Her identity as a woman of color shaped her “resilience and commitment to inclusivity.”
• Leadership, to her, means “creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.”
• Inspired by civil rights history and Black History Month, she feels a strong sense of legacy and purpose.
• Recalling her inspiration, she shares:
  “I once went to a joint conference ... where I saw so many people that looked like me and I was hooked from the word go. They were my heroes.” [03:41]
• Her background in bioethics, legal studies, and theology offers a multidisciplinary lens that “emphasizes the sanctity of human rights and spirits.”

The Role and Diversity of the Association of Professional Chaplains

[05:46]

• APC certifies chaplains of various faiths, denominations, and sectors once they complete training.
• APC partners with organizations such as the Association of Jewish Chaplains and the National Association of Catholic Chaplains, making it “a very diverse organization, meaning that it is interfaith.” [09:26]
• Diversity efforts often encounter resistance due to discomfort with change.

Facing and Overcoming Leadership Challenges

[05:46]

• Rev. Riddell faced challenges, particularly when leading diversity initiatives and change management.
  • Resistance often stemmed from “people [who] feel threatened by change.”
  • She overcame this with “transparent communication, actively seeking input from stakeholders at all levels.”
  • Emphasized open forums, sharing data, and collaborative trust-building.
• She also experienced cultural biases and direct opposition as a woman of color in leadership.
  • Encounters with “discounting, dismissive and demeaning decorum in professional environments.”
• Her resilience was anchored by radical self-care and creative outlets: “I turned to music, fashion and dance because that was my outlet to maintain my mental health and resilience. Resilience.” [08:37]
• She responded to professional dismissiveness by “advocating dignity, respect, and sensibility.”

Advice for Emerging Leaders, Especially Women of Color

[10:06]

• Embrace your identity and perspectives as strengths.
• Always have authentic presence; don’t use technology to shield yourself from real human connection: “If you are going to be an emerging leader, you have to fully be present and not judgmental. Rejecting the modern tendency to use technology as a shield from genuine human interaction.” [10:12]
• Build a supportive network of mentors and allies.
• Use obstacles as opportunities for growth and support.
• Prioritize solidarity and community-building, even online:
  “I cannot emphasize the importance of solidarity, using platforms like social media to inspire others and foster a sense of shared journey.” [11:10]
• Speak up for yourself; don’t allow your story or identity to be devalued.
• Leadership is a lifelong learning journey:
  “Be open to feedback, adapt when necessary, and stay true to your values as you navigate your path.” [11:40]

The Future of Chaplain Leadership and Healthcare Spiritual Care

[12:29]

• Leaders must ensure technology facilitates rather than hinders true connection: “A future where technology is not used as a shield to hide behind, but where leaders prioritize genuine human connection.” [12:30]
• Ministries—and chaplaincy at large—should focus on active listening and refuse complacency.
• Bioethics will be increasingly important, requiring empathy and ethical judgment: “The future of chaplaincy as a noble calling that must integrate empathy with ethical theories to make a tangible impact on lives.” [12:55]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “What motivated me to pursue leadership ... stemmed from a desire to amplify diverse voices and perspectives within our organization.”
  — Rev. Riddell [02:30]

• “Cultural biases and direct objections from individuals who don't support women, especially women of color in leadership roles... How I overcame this rudeness was by focusing on radical self care and creative expression.”
  — Rev. Riddell [07:59]

• “Your voice matters and can pave the way for others. Do not allow your unique stories or identities to be devalued by others.”
  — Rev. Riddell [11:21]

• “Leadership is a journey filled with learning experiences. Be open to feedback, adapt when necessary, and stay true to your values as you navigate your path.”
  — Rev. Riddell [11:40]

Important Timestamps

• 01:38: Rev. Riddell introduces herself and clarifies her views are personal
• 02:30: Leadership motivations and influence of identity, legacy
• 05:46: The structure and diversity of APC; challenges faced
• 08:20: Strategies for resilience and self-care in leadership
• 10:06: Advice for aspiring leaders, especially women of color
• 12:29: Vision for the future of chaplain leadership and integrating bioethics

Closing Thoughts

Rev. Inetta Riddell’s conversation is a powerful reflection on inclusive leadership, the crucial role of self-care, and the necessity of authentic, ethical connection in healthcare. Her guidance is especially resonant for women of color and anyone seeking to foster empathy, community, and innovation in spiritual care.