Podcast Summary: Pastor Lorenzo Sewell | The Sage Steele Show
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Sage Steele Show
- Host/Author: Sage Steele Productions
- Episode: Pastor Lorenzo Sewell
- Release Date: July 2, 2025
- Description: Hosted by former ESPN anchor Sage Steele, the show features deep, personal conversations with a diverse range of guests to enlighten, entertain, and engage listeners.
Introduction to Pastor Lorenzo Sewell
[00:57 - 02:31]
Sage Steele introduces Pastor Lorenzo Sewell, highlighting his extraordinary transformation from a gang leader in Detroit to the head of a large, influential church. Lorenzo's unique journey culminated in delivering the invocation at President Donald Trump's inauguration in January 2025. Sage emphasizes Lorenzo's resilience in standing up for his beliefs despite racial prejudices.
Notable Quote:
"His story really, really is incredible. The way he chose to stand up for himself, his beliefs, despite being told that he couldn't think that because of the color of his skin."
— Sage Steele [00:57]
Hosting President Trump at His Church
[02:31 - 05:08]
Lorenzo recounts the unexpected turnout when President Trump visited his church in Detroit, a city historically dominated by Democratic voters. He was surprised to see a significant number of Black Americans passionately supporting Trump, contrary to what the media portrayed. Lorenzo attributes the turnout to Trump's genuine engagement with the community.
Notable Quote:
"I believe people showed up that day because he showed up."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [03:56]
Additional Quote:
"Trump took the time to do it. He just wants me to be myself."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [05:08]
Political Views and Black Community Engagement
[05:08 - 10:26]
Lorenzo expresses his critical stance toward the Democratic Party, accusing it of systemic corruption and election fraud that adversely affects Black communities, particularly in Detroit. He challenges the notion that Black Americans inherently support Democrats, advocating instead for a revival of Black support for the Republican Party based on historical affiliations and shared values.
Notable Quote:
"The Democratic Party is a demonic party. Anytime a person can say to an individual, you can celebrate what God hates. Anytime a person can say to an individual, you are a part of Margaret Singer's God of Moloch, you're worshiping the God of Moloch by sacrificing these babies."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [21:59]
Additional Quote:
"So why do I need to not be myself to try to be accepted by a political party?"
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [09:12]
Personal Struggles and Past Life as a Gang Leader
[51:35 - 59:31]
Pastor Lorenzo shares his tumultuous past as a gang leader and drug dealer in Detroit. He vividly describes his descent into crime, the pressure to remain loyal to his gang despite the moral conflicts, and his eventual turning point through a transformative spiritual experience. This pivotal moment led him to abandon his life of crime for faith and community service.
Notable Quote:
"I was an evil man... I was a street pharmacist... I gave my life to Jesus."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [53:30]
Additional Quote:
"I went from being a dope dealer to a hope dealer."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [58:13]
Forgiveness and Family Challenges
[60:24 - 68:11]
Lorenzo delves into his painful relationship with his father, who was incarcerated for murder. He discusses the deep emotional scars left by his father's actions and his ongoing struggle with forgiveness. Despite the immense hurt, Lorenzo emphasizes the importance of faith in overcoming personal grievances and fostering reconciliation.
Notable Quote:
"I continuously forgive my dad. So now we're in a position where a state rep has allowed...I am in the process of seeing him."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [66:10]
Additional Quote:
"I'm trying to get him to see me. And this is why I say you're not to see my dad. You know what? I need to be obedient to Jesus."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [66:10]
Mental Health and Leadership
[68:11 - 79:18]
Lorenzo addresses the crucial topic of mental health, particularly within the Black community. He openly shares his own battles with suicidal thoughts and emphasizes the necessity of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership. Lorenzo advocates for breaking the taboo surrounding mental health, encouraging individuals to seek help and support.
Notable Quote:
"I have struggled with mental health, specifically suicidal thoughts. So I realized that people...that lead mental health organizations, it wasn't until they came out and began to talk about mental health...that I felt the authority to talk about the mental health issues that I've had in my own life."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [75:32]
Additional Quote:
"I believe people want to be touched with our weaknesses...leaders that are vulnerable."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [74:39]
Closing Remarks and Future Goals
[83:07 - 89:14]
In his final segments, Lorenzo reflects on his mission to uplift his community through faith and political activism. He underscores the importance of embracing one's vulnerabilities and remaining steadfast in one's beliefs. Lorenzo outlines his aspirations to run for political office to advocate for fair elections and greater representation of Black Republicans, aiming to shift the political landscape in favor of his community.
Notable Quote:
"This is about somebody who can change anybody because sometimes I feel like I'm just a nobody. That's what all this is about... the lamb of God who was slain, Jesus Christ."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [83:07]
Additional Quote:
"If I can show you my humanity...I struggle with that too."
— Pastor Lorenzo Sewell [74:24]
Key Themes and Insights
- Transformation and Redemption: Lorenzo’s journey from gang leadership to pastoral work exemplifies profound personal transformation through faith.
- Political Advocacy: He passionately advocates for Black Americans to reconsider their political affiliations, urging a return to Republican values based on historical context.
- Faith and Mental Health: Emphasizing the intersection of faith and mental well-being, Lorenzo highlights the importance of addressing mental health openly within the community.
- Forgiveness and Healing: His struggle with forgiving his father underscores the theme of personal healing and the role of faith in overcoming deep-seated pain.
- Vulnerability in Leadership: Lorenzo champions the idea that authentic, vulnerable leadership fosters genuine connections and effective community engagement.
Conclusion
Pastor Lorenzo Sewell's appearance on The Sage Steele Show offers a compelling narrative of transformation, faith, and unwavering commitment to his community. Through his candid discussions, he challenges prevailing political norms, shares personal struggles, and advocates for mental health awareness, all while maintaining a steadfast dedication to his faith and leadership principles. This episode not only sheds light on Lorenzo's remarkable life story but also serves as a call to action for listeners to embrace authenticity, seek forgiveness, and actively engage in shaping a just and equitable society.