I want to begin today by extending my deepest sympathies to the people of Los Angeles. To those who have suffered unimaginable losses due to the California fires, please know that my heart, prayers, and thoughts are with you.This tragedy is a stark reminder of the power of community—the strength we find in coming together as one. Fire does not discriminate based on our skin color, our workplace position, or the balance in our bank accounts. It impacts us all, underscoring the importance of unity and compassion.Our guest today, Eboo Patel, is a powerful advocate for building and strengthening communities. He joins us on this week's episode of the Cracking Open podcast to remind us of a profound truth: “We should do social change work because God wants humans to thrive, and it is our job to help that happen.”Together, we explore his upbringing, the concept of pluralism in today’s divisive political climate, and his refreshing perspective on America’s identity: “America is not a melting pot, and it’s not a battlefield. It’s a potluck. That means welcoming and being delighted by the distinctive dishes that people bring to the table, finding creative combinations, and engaging in enriching conversations. That’s what America is about.” Eboo Patel is an author, speaker, educator, and Founder and President of Interfaith America, the leading interfaith organization in the United States. He is a civic leader who believes religious diversity is a vital and inspiring aspect of American democracy. Named one of America’s best leaders by U.S. News & World Report, Eboo has worked with governments, universities, corporations, and civic organizations to transform faith into a bridge for cooperation, not division.Some of Eboo’s notable achievements:Served on President Obama’s Inaugural Faith CouncilDelivered hundreds of keynote speeches worldwideAuthored five books, including We Need to Build: Field Notes for Diverse DemocracyAshoka Fellow and Rhodes Scholar with a doctorate in sociology of religion from Oxford UniversityEboo’s honesty and vulnerability in this episode will inspire you. He shares powerful stories about how religious and educational institutions can foster unity instead of division. His words ignited a fire in me to embrace the "potluck" concept in my own life, celebrating the diversity of people, traditions, and ideas that bring us all closer together.Tune in to discover how you too, can create a more inclusive and thriving community.Love,MollyTo support the Los Angeles community in healing from the devastation and trauma caused by the Kenneth fire, Molly is offering valuable information sessions on how to start the healing process. These are designed to assist companies, schools, hospitals, and other organizations. For more details, please email Molly at molly.rowen.carroll@gmail.com.Learn more about Eboo Patel and Interfaith America hereFollow Eboo on XPurchase We Need to Build: Field Notes for Diverse Democracy hereFollow Molly on Instagram and Facebook6-Week Coaching Program coming May 14th!6-Month Coaching Group coming August 13th!Click here for more details