Catalyst Atlanta Speaker Spotlight // Kevin Palau

We are so excited about Catalyst Atlanta 2012. If you haven't entered for a chance to win new Nike kicks or a dream vacation do so NOW! You also get 30+ songs as a FREE download gift from us & a few of our favorite musical artist friends.

Continuing through to October we will be featuring a different speaker answering some questions about the MAKING of a leader. We are really pumped for YOU to get to know these leaders on a deeper level & have them answer some tough [and some fun] questions about leadership. We had such a great response from our speakers we are excited to be able to share two speaker spotlights with you each week, on Tuesday & Thursday.

1. Who is someone who inspires you today to be a better leader?

My Dad, for his unrelenting commitment to proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ around the world.
And Pastor Rick McKinley. He embodies love and service of our city as he leads Imago Dei Community here in Portland.

2. What is one mistake you witness leaders making more frequently than others? What are the steps to avoid this mistake?

I think many ministries are afraid to change. At the Palau Association, we had to change from the traditional crusade model, to a more holistic festival model that includes sustainable service. It's important to re-think our strategies and question our methods. Too often we do things because it's the way they've always been done. I would encourage leaders to surround themselves with people who are willing to challenge them and be honest with them.

3. What is one thing about you that "MAKES" you unique, that the Catalyst community probably doesn't know, but should?

I am an avid University of Oregon Ducks football fan. 3 BCS bowl games in a row, and the best uniforms in college football. It's true- great football is played outside the SEC.

4. How would you describe yourself as a leader?

Collaborative and open to change.

5. What are 3-4 keys in the "Making" of a Leader? As you look at the process for yourself of how you've been made into the leader you are now, what stands out?

1. Having the right example and mentor. For me, that has been my Dad. He is an incredible leader with integrity and clear vision.
2. Facing hard truths. Be willing to change and listen to criticism.
3. Working with people who are different than you. In progressive Portland, this has manifested itself in building relationships with our openly gay mayor, corporate leaders, public school officials, etc. It can be tempting to only surround yourself with people who agree with you and share your worldview, but true growth happens in the context of unique relationships with people of different backgrounds and beliefs. In Portland, building these relationships has challenged my thinking, and also produced great good for our city.

6. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

We can't forget the basics. The best advice, hands down, comes from the scriptures. For me, it's Galatians 2:20 - "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." We cannot succeed in anything apart from Christ living and working in us.

7. If you could have dinner with anyone, who would you choose?

Tim Keller. At the Palau Association we are working to inspire Gospel Movements in cities around the world, and I would love to continue learning from Dr. Keller's ministry in Manhattan and his thinking around Gospel ministry in cities.