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Bishop TD Jakes

Overview​

Bishop TD Jakes is a prominent religious leader, author, filmmaker, and influential figure who leads The Potter's House, a non-denominational megachurch in Dallas, Texas. He has significant influence across various sectors including faith, media, business, and increasingly, technology and space initiatives. According to the May 16, 2025 conversation with Christian Elam, Jakes is now being engaged with NASA-related projects, demonstrating his expanding sphere of influence beyond traditional ministry.

Background & Influence​

  • Founder and senior pastor of The Potter's House, a megachurch in Dallas
  • Internationally recognized faith leader with a global following
  • Author of numerous bestselling books
  • Producer of films and television content
  • Hosts conferences and events that draw tens of thousands of attendees
  • Early mentor to Paula White (Trump's spiritual advisor)
  • Has a daily broadcast watched by millions, including Christian Elam's mother who "watches every morning for like the last 20 years"

Connections & Network​

  • Paula White: Served as an early mentor to Paula White, who became Trump's spiritual advisor and director of the White House Faith and Opportunity Initiative
  • Christian Elam: Elam mentioned meeting him at the Milken Conference (May 2025) and bringing him on "to our NASA stuff"
  • Milken Institute: Participated in the Milken Conference (May 2025), indicating connections to financial and policy leaders
  • NASA: Being brought into NASA-related initiatives by Christian Elam (specific role undefined)

Potential Value & Collaboration Opportunities​

  • His influence within religious communities could help mobilize support for initiatives
  • Connection to both Christian Elam's space/technology work and Paula White's political influence creates interesting bridge potential
  • His communication skills and platform could help translate complex initiatives (like space exploration or educational innovation) to broader audiences
  • Involvement with NASA projects suggests openness to science and technology collaboration

Indirect Connection​

While Gary has not met Bishop TD Jakes directly, there are now two connection points:

  1. Through Paula White (Gary met with her on May 16, 2025)
  2. Through Christian Elam (who is bringing Jakes into NASA initiatives)

Gary also mentioned in the May 16, 2025 conversation with Christian Elam that he was gifting Paula White "a rare TD Jake's cassette" among other items.

Action Items​

  • Follow up with Christian Elam on the nature of TD Jakes' involvement with NASA initiatives
  • Consider if TD Jakes' platform and influence could support Alpha Schools or other educational initiatives
  • Explore potential introduction through either Christian Elam or Paula White if appropriate
  • Research TD Jakes' previous statements or activities related to education, technology, or space exploration