Podcast Summary: "Keep it Positive, Sweetie" Episode featuring Tasha Cobbs Leonard

Podcast Information:

• Title: Keep it Positive, Sweetie
• Host/Author: Crystal Renee Hayslett
• Description: A safe space for women to heal, laugh, grow, and love, curated by Crystal Renee Hayslett.
• Episode: Do It Anyway w/Tasha Cobbs Leonard
• Release Date: February 9, 2025

1. Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of "Keep it Positive, Sweetie," host Crystal Renee Hayslett welcomes the renowned gospel artist and minister, Tasha Cobbs Leonard. Crystal expresses her admiration for Tasha's musical ministry, highlighting Tasha as "one of gospel's most grounded torchbearers." The conversation sets the stage for an intimate discussion about Tasha's personal journey, ministry work, and life lessons.

Notable Quote:

• Crystal (02:04): "I can't wait to bring today's guest to the couch. Her musical ministry has definitely brought me through."

2. Personal Transformation and the Big Chop

Tasha shares a significant personal transformation—her decision to cut her hair, known as the "big chop." Originally motivated by the physical toll of not wearing wigs and damaging her natural hair through protective styles, the act became a spiritual awakening. Tasha describes feeling "exposed in a great way," symbolizing her emergence from hiding behind her hair to embrace her true self.

Notable Quotes:

• Tasha (02:05): "Originally, I was like, hey, I'm gonna cut it, because a lot of people don't know I don't do wigs."
• Tasha (02:58): "I feel like something is being revealed. And it may not be for everybody, but I feel like, you know, all the years of hiding behind the hair... now I'm in this space where, hey, this is me."

3. Overcoming Tragedy and Embracing Resilience

Tasha recounts a poignant moment when she lost her father unexpectedly, just seven days before winning her first Grammy. Despite the overwhelming grief, she found the strength to perform and honor her late father during the award ceremony. This experience solidified her philosophy of "doing it anyway"—pushing through pain and uncertainty to fulfill one's purpose.

Notable Quotes:

• Tasha (07:07): "Sometimes your heart will be broken and you don't understand the season that you're in, but I want you to dig deep within yourself and do it anyway."
• Tasha (09:00): "Whatever you need is within you. You just gotta dig deep and do that thing anyway."

4. Founding Purpose Place Church

Discussing her ministry, Tasha explains the inception of Purpose Place Church. Alongside her husband, who felt a divine calling, they sought to create a community that transcends traditional church settings. Starting during the pandemic, their church remained virtual for two years, fostering a diverse and committed congregation that travels from various cities to connect.

Notable Quotes:

• Tasha (13:53): "God brought this group of people together and he's like, we're going to build a community. Community of people who will restore hope to the community."
• Tasha (14:38): "There are some areas where you have these people where you can say, okay, that person mentors me... but there are some doors that God opens for you that's just for you."

5. Embracing a Blended Family

Tasha opens up about her blended family, detailing the joys and challenges of adopting and parenting stepchildren. She emphasizes the importance of self-growth and unconditional love in fostering harmonious relationships. A touching moment occurs when a friend's commendation reinforces Tasha's role as a loving stepmother.

Notable Quotes:

• Tasha (25:00): "My children have taught me so much about life, so much about myself. I've had to grow up to become the mother or stepmom that they need."
• Tasha (26:18): "We put ourselves to the side, and it has just been such a beautiful experience."

6. Advocating for Mental Health and Therapy

Tasha passionately advocates for mental health awareness, particularly within the Christian community. She shares her personal struggles with infertility and the emotional toll of IVF, underscoring the importance of seeking therapy. Tasha stresses that taking care of one's mental well-being is essential for effectively serving others.

Notable Quotes:

• Tasha (30:01): "I am an advocate for therapy. All of us need to get a therapist."
• Tasha (31:27): "You can sit here and say, do it my way, but ultimately I would say, do it God's way."

7. Balancing Ministry and Personal Well-being

The conversation delves into the balance between ministry responsibilities and personal rest. Tasha shares wisdom from her pastor, Pastor Darius, emphasizing that "rest is trust." She highlights the necessity of self-care to maintain one's strength and resilience in ministry.

Notable Quotes:

• Tasha (35:11): "Pastor Darius teaches us that rest is trust."
• Tasha (36:10): "Rest is trust."

8. Navigating Collaborations and Representing Faith

Tasha discusses her approach to musical collaborations, including her work with artists like Nicki Minaj. She emphasizes the importance of representing her faith authentically, even when facing backlash. Tasha believes that collaborations can bridge gaps and reach broader audiences for the Kingdom.

Notable Quotes:

• Tasha (37:30): "If God says yes, then I'm going to go with what he says."
• Tasha (38:15): "A lot of people, when you say you're collaborating with someone like Nicki, think she represents one thing. But knowing her, I know she cares that other people do too."

9. Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, Tasha shares her excitement for upcoming projects, including the "Good News Tour" with Maverick City Music and her devotional book, "Do It Anyway." She reflects on the transformative power of her work and encourages listeners to embrace their unique callings.

Notable Quotes:

• Tasha (46:43): "We are on the Good News tour."
• Tasha (48:13): "I put my life in that. It's memoirs and stories... it's going to be an encouragement to so many people."

10. Conclusion

Crystal and Tasha conclude the episode with mutual appreciation, highlighting key takeaways such as the importance of rest and trusting God's plans. Tasha's journey embodies resilience, faith, and the unwavering commitment to "do it anyway," inspiring listeners to navigate their own challenges with strength and grace.

Notable Quote:

• Crystal (49:05): "My gym for this week: Rest is trust. I gotta relax."

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience in Adversity: Tasha's ability to perform and honor her father shortly after his passing exemplifies unwavering faith and strength.
• Authentic Ministry: Founding Purpose Place Church during a pandemic showcases adaptability and a commitment to building a supportive community.
• Mental Health Advocacy: Emphasizing the importance of therapy and self-care within the Christian context.
• Faith-Driven Collaboration: Tasha's collaborations aim to bridge diverse audiences while staying true to her faith.
• Work-Life Balance: The principle that "rest is trust" underscores the necessity of personal well-being in sustaining ministry efforts.

This episode offers a profound exploration of faith, personal growth, and the determination to overcome life's challenges by "doing it anyway." Tasha Cobbs Leonard's story serves as an inspiration for listeners to embrace their journeys with positivity and purpose.