Rick Sessoms

Rick Sessoms, Ph.D., is the CEO and founder of Freedom to Lead International, an organization dedicated to developing Christ-centered leaders in oral-preference communities worldwide. With over 15 years at the helm of this initiative, Rick's mission is to empower leaders through storycentric strategies, a unique approach born out of a pivotal moment in 2007. During his time as part of a leadership team preparing for a major congress, Rick realized the gap in leadership development tailored to the needs of rapidly growing, storycentric churches. This revelation ignited his passion for using narrative-based methods to cultivate transformational leaders.

Rick has an extensive background in ministry, having served as a missionary, pastor, educator, and mission executive across multiple continents. He holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Regent University, a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Leadership from Trinity International University, and a Master of Divinity in Intercultural Studies from Columbia International University. Rick’s leadership experience spans roles such as Director of Participant Selections for the Cape Town 2010 Congress with The Lausanne Movement, Leadership Development Officer with TWR, and Vice President of Spiritual Formation at Simpson University.

Rick and his wife Tina reside in North Carolina and have two grown children. His life's work continues to influence leaders globally, particularly in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Europe.