Leaders & Staff

ABOUT BRIAN

Brian Washington is a part of the heart and mind behind The Yoked Life—a movement built to bridge faith and real life for young adults navigating today’s world. With over a decade of experience in ministry, creative media, and community building, Brian brings a unique blend of biblical insight, cultural relevance, and authentic storytelling to every space he leads.

As a pastor, speaker, and content creator, Brian is passionate about helping people wrestle with life’s hard questions, reconnect with their purpose, and walk in deeper relationship with God. Whether through YOKED DevoSessions, the bold energy of The After Service, or his podcast Merely Misunderstood, Brian creates spaces where people don’t just feel seen—they feel understood.

Rooted in real life, driven by kingdom purpose, and committed to building community that lasts—Brian is on mission to help a generation get yoked to something deeper than hype.

ABOUT VENESSA

Venessa Washington is the quiet strength and creative fire behind The Yoked Life. A wife, mother of seven, and natural nurturer, Venessa brings warmth, wisdom, and authenticity into every space she touches. With a deep love for people and a gift for seeing beauty in the process, she leads with a servant’s heart and a visionary’s eye.

Whether she’s supporting behind the scenes, crafting personalized creations through her business Khottens Crafts, or ministering through conversation, Venessa lives out the mission of Yoked daily—rooted in faith, family, and a relentless pursuit of purpose. She is a true example of what it means to be yoked in love, grace, and partnership.

More than a title, Venessa is the culture-setter. Her presence reminds this movement that excellence can still feel like home.

ABOUT KENNETH

Kenneth Thorns is a core voice within The Yoked Life—a leader who brings depth, clarity, and conviction to every conversation he’s part of. Known for his authenticity, spiritual insight, and bold transparency, Kenneth has been a featured guest on multiple episodes of Merely Misunderstood, where his ability to speak truth with both humility and strength has resonated deeply with the audience.

As a leader, Kenneth serves not only with his voice but with his presence—creating safe space for real conversations, honest questions, and transformational growth. Whether he’s sharing lessons from his personal journey or challenging others to walk boldly in their faith, Kenneth is a trusted guide and spiritual brother in the movement.

He doesn’t just lead the culture—he helps shape it, one real moment at a time.

ABOUT BELINDA

Belinda Thorns embodies grace, resilience, and a deep-rooted faith that speaks even when she doesn’t say a word. As a supportive partner to Kenneth and a respected voice in her own right, Belinda leads with compassion, discernment, and a calming presence that anchors the room.

Her strength lies in her ability to see the unseen, nurture others with quiet wisdom, and model what it means to walk with God even through the unseen battles. Whether behind the scenes or standing alongside her husband in ministry, Belinda is a steady force—one who uplifts, prays, and empowers those around her with authenticity and love.

She reminds us that not all leadership is loud, but the impact is undeniable.