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Explore every episode of the podcast Radical Sacred
Dive into the complete episode list for Radical Sacred. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enchantment and Dragonflies with Brooke Williams | 03 Dec 2025 | 01:08:15 | |
It’s hard to put this episode with Brooke Williams on his new book Encountering Dragonfly into words! The breadth and width of this conversation is vast. We talk to Brooke about dragonflies, prophetic dreams, listening to your inner knowing, animal guides, re-enchantment, imaginal ecology, the veils between worlds, and more! Grateful for this lovely book, and for Brooke’s ability to invite, enliven, and re-enchant. Show Notes:
Chapters 00:00 The Enchantment of Dragonflies 06:19 Exploring Inner Worlds and Personal Truths 12:25 The Intersection of Science and Spirituality 18:49 Animals as Messengers and Guides 26:57 Archetypes and the Symbolism of Dragonflies 34:49 Imaginal Ecology and Natural History 35:41 Imaginal Ecology and Relationships 39:02 Consciousness and Collective Responsibility 42:37 Attention: The Key to Re-enchantment 47:23 Personal and Collective Re-enchantment 54:03 The Power of Passion and Connection 01:01:35 Facing Mortality and Purpose | |||
| Beth Norcross and Leah Rampy on Discovering the Spiritual Wisdom of Trees | 26 Nov 2025 | 01:03:20 | |
We were so fortunate to meet Beth Norcross and Leah Rampy at The Wild Goose Festival! This chance encounter led us to reading their beautiful book Discovering the Spiritual Wisdom of Trees and to the lovely and deeply rooted conversation in this episode. The way Beth and Leah invite us back to nature, remind us that we are one with the trees, and embody looking to the trees as our teachers have inspired us so deeply. May we each find our love for all beings renewed and reinvigorated by these women and their gorgeous work. Show Notes:
Chapters 00:00 The Spiritual Connection with Nature 08:59 Personal Journeys and Teacher Trees 18:17 The Wisdom of Trees: Literal and Metaphorical 26:52 The Role of Trees in Spiritual Practices 33:00 The Journey of Spiritual Practices 36:04 Nurse Logs and Ancestral Connections 42:40 Grounding Through Spiritual Practices 48:51 Reconnecting with Nature and Spirituality 57:32 A Message from the Trees | |||
| Pilgrimage to Peace with Colleen Moore | 09 Jul 2025 | 00:48:34 | |
Colleen Moore is the director of Peace With Justice at the General Board of Church and Society for the UMC. She joins us today to talk about a recent Young Adult Pilgrimage of Peace she helped facilitate in South Korea. What can we learn from bearing witness to spaces and places where there has been great suffering? How might walking with others in places very different from our usual bring about personal and communal transformation? Colleen shares about her own personal guides, her deep call to peace and dignity for all, and her commitment to sharing stories to shape real change. Stuff we mention in this week’s episode (or meant to anyways):
00:00 Opening Reflections and Poetic Introduction 01:06 Acknowledging Global Pain and Unrest 02:26 Introducing Colleen Moore and Her Work 03:59 Personal Reflections on Heavy Times 06:39 Finding Joy Amidst Struggles 08:26 Understanding the Pilgrimage Experience 08:38 The Young Adult Peace Pilgrimage Explained 10:04 Witnessing History: The Gowlingeol Massacre Site 12:19 Activating Change Through Pilgrimage 15:43 Surprises and Emotional Impact of the Pilgrimage 18:43 Power, Empire, and Advocacy Challenges 24:24 The Importance of Storytelling in Advocacy 27:20 Personal Narratives and Activism 28:11 Guides and Mentors in the Journey 30:56 The Importance of Bearing Witness 33:56 Christian Nationalism and Its Implications 38:58 Pilgrimage as a Spiritual Journey 41:03 Connecting with Community and Action | |||
| Wes Granberg-Michaelson Reshapes Our Definitions of Pilgrimage | 25 Jun 2025 | 00:59:33 | |
Our journey with season 2 continues to meander in beautiful and unexpected ways as we have the extreme privilege of speaking with author, pastor, theologian, and someone well seasoned in the art of pilgrimage: Wes Granberg-Michaelson! Wes blows our minds and invites us into new and deeper understandings of pilgrimage. We delve into pilgrimage as response to empire, important movements that are inviting us back to our truest selves, and what can undergird us in the uncertain times we find ourselves in. This expansive conversation was a gift to us as are all of you, dear listeners! Thanks for making season 2 a wild and lovely pilgrimage. Cool stuff we mention in this week’s episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Radical Sacred and Summer Solstice 01:47 Meeting Wes Granberg-Michelson 02:24 Wes's Journey as a Pilgrim 07:43 Understanding Pilgrimage and Its Dual Nature 09:51 Integrating Internal and External Journeys 16:23 Intentionality in Pilgrimage 25:36 Four Movements of Pilgrimage 31:44 Navigating the Crisis in Seminaries 36:11 Creating a Holding Space for Spiritual Growth 39:50 Walking Away from Empire: The Power of Pilgrimage 50:33 The Role of Nature in Spiritual Connection | |||
| Walking Together, Apart | 18 Jun 2025 | 00:44:38 | |
Today we leave our pent up indoor spaces and venture out for a walk together, apart. Can walking bring us closer when there’s literal distance between us? Can walking help us bridge the gap between our heart and our actions? Between where we are and where we’re meant to be? We talk about this season, the places and spaces we’ve been, our fabulous guests who’ve invited us into our own pilgrimages, and how we’re doing with all that’s shifting and changing. Join us Saturday June 21st at 8 am for a Conscious Nature Stroll! Choose your favorite walking spot or find one brand new! Season 2 is drawing to a close and a lot of pilgrimaging has occurred for us since September. We’d love to walk together, apart as we reflect on all that’s been and that’s yet to come. We invite you to bring your favorite pal (dog or human, your choice), your favorite poem of the moment to begin your time, turn your phone to silent, and reflect on one or two of the questions below as you walk:
Walk for however long and you’d like and share your reflections with us on Substack or Instagram. Thank you for walking with us this season! Chapters 00:00 The Power of Walking and Connection 05:43 Embracing Change and New Beginnings 12:01 The Journey of Pilgrimage and Intention 17:45 Attention and Awareness in Nature 23:40 Navigating Endings and New Opportunities 30:57 Embracing Change and New Beginnings 37:02 Creating Without Fear: The Joy of Expression | |||
| Carolyn Whitney-Brown's Journey with Henri Nouwen | 11 Jun 2025 | 00:46:23 | |
Carolyn Whitney-Brown joins us in this playful and imaginative conversation around her and Henri Nouwen’s book Flying, Falling, Catching: An Unlikely Story of Finding Freedom. Written more than 2 decades after his death and centered around Henri’s late in life experiences with the trapeze group the Flying Rodelighs, this book is a joyous invitation to expand our horizons and to follow our curiosity. What new, high flying adventures might be calling to you? Where are the communities in our lives that encourage us to live fully? Carolyn, Henri, and the Flying Rodleighs invite us all to be joyful risk takers, rooted deeply in self and community. Show Notes: Chapters 00:00 The Poetic Prelude: Icarus and Love 01:24 Introducing Carolyn Whitney: A Journey with Henry Nowen 02:29 Creative Exploration: Writing and Illustrating Together 04:38 Joyful Risk-Taking: Embracing Change in Uncertain Times 09:11 The Trapeze: A Metaphor for Community and Connection 15:15 Balancing Joy and Angst: The Duality of Henry Nowen 18:47 Surprises in the Process: Reflecting on Henry's Legacy 21:18 Henry as a Guide: Lessons from a Life of Pilgrimage 27:04 The Role of Discipline: Structure in Creativity 31:31 Overcoming Inner Criticism: The Voices in Our Heads 34:46 Community and Creativity: Finding Support in Unlikely Places 40:03 The Artist's Role: Bringing Hope Through Creativity 44:51 Embracing Our Ancestors: The Interplay of Joy and Woe | |||
| Honest Endings, Gilead, and Easter Wrestling with Rev. Rebecca Anderson and Rev. Vince Amlin | 04 Jun 2025 | 00:45:09 | |
This week we are joined by Rev. Rebecca Anderson and Rev. Vince Amlin of Bethany United Church of Christ in Chicago. We chat about partnership, creating healing spaces, and learning to move with the seasons of life and the ebbs and flows of our invitations from Spirit. Vince and Rebecca share about their journey with and honest ending of their beloved, queer, storytelling, bar-meeting church, Gilead. Every pilgrimage has a beginning and an end. What might we learn from ending things intentionally and with the Cosmic Christ in mind? And how might the things that truly matter to us transcend literal endings? Cool stuff we mention in this week’s episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 Reflections on the Afterlife and Personal Growth 02:06 Introduction to Gilead Church and Its Mission 03:47 Founding Stories: The Birth of Gilead Church 07:15 The Significance of the Name 'Gilead' 08:54 Queerness and Storytelling: Core Values of Gilead 15:53 Understanding Pilgrimage in the Context of Gilead 16:35 The Essence of Pilgrimage 20:52 Intentionality in Community 27:10 Embracing Endings with Grace 33:20 Transformative Experiences and Future Directions | |||
| The Intersection of Science and Spirituality Through the Life of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin | 28 May 2025 | 00:53:06 | |
We are thrilled to chat with Frank and Mary Frost who are partners in life and film making! Today we talk about their fabulous, Emmy nominated, documentary about French scientist and Jesuit Priest, Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. Teilhard was a feminist, a visionary thinker, a paleontologist, and a man way before his time. When met with new information that challenged his religious ideals, he didn’t shrink, but he expanded to meet the moment. What might we learn from his ecstatic, open hearted way of moving through the world? Might Teilhard have something to teach us about the intersection of science and spirituality? Join this week's conversation to find out! Cool stuff we mention in this week’s episode (or meant to anyways):
00:00 The Vision of Teilhard de Chardin 05:32 The Journey of Filmmaking and Discovery 09:37 The Relevance of Teilhard Today 14:35 Loyalty and Steadfastness in Faith 20:27 The Complexity of Love and Relationships 24:07 Expanding Spirit and Curiosity 25:55 The Omega Point and Spirit-Matter Unity 28:17 The Omega Point and Evolution 31:41 Feminism and the Eternal Feminine 35:49 Paleolithic Emotions and Modern Challenges 39:49 Ecstasy and the Mystical Experience 45:04 Pilgrimage and the Search for the Divine | |||
| Chelan Harkin and the Ecstatic Path | 21 May 2025 | 00:53:03 | |
Chelan Harkin joins us today on this meandering and moving conversation about the path of ecstatic movement. When we dial in to our truest selves, what mystical downloads from the universe might we receive? When we follow desire, where might our destination be? And how can a seemingly small act, like learning to trust the gentle nudges of the universe, lead us back to us? Spending time with Chelan is like diving into the deep waters she’s named after, it’s inviting and cool and totally refreshing. We hope you’ll dive in with us, into all the spaces and places that make you, you. Cool stuff we mention in this week’s episode (or meant to anyways):
00:00 The Ecstatic Spark of Creativity 02:39 The Journey of a Poet: From Hesitation to Expression 05:34 The Prayer Experiment: Connecting with the Muse 08:27 The Cosmic Connection: Co-authoring with Daniel Ladinsky 10:26 Listening to the Nudges: Intuition and Inner Guidance 11:35 The Pilgrimage of Refining: Embracing Pain for Growth 17:09 Nature as a Healing Force: Reconnecting with the Earth 21:57 Somatic Practices: Grounding in the Body 27:09 Finding Home in Nature: Personal Connections to the Land 28:33 Connecting with Nature and Desire 32:51 The Power of Surrender and Flow 36:14 The Evolution of God and Language 41:42 Myths and Collective Consciousness 46:01 Guides and Mentorship on the Journey Announcement Radical Sacred will be at this year's Wild Goose Festival leading a nature walk we are calling, "Walking the Illuminated Path: A Conscious Stroll in Nature." Using the practice of terra divina (reading nature as a sacred text) we will go for a conscious nature walk employing our 5 senses. When we slow down and center nature what might we hear from the Divine? From the depths of our own heart? From the earth? Invitations from our still wild selves are waiting for us in nature. How will we respond? If you'd like to join us August 28-31 in Harmony, NC Radical Sacred listeners get a discount on their registration. When checking out use code A-RS for $50 off the total price. | |||
| Dr. Tamice Spencer-Helms is a Social Alchemist and Lover of Trees | 14 May 2025 | 00:53:29 | |
Today we go on a journey back to our truest selves with Dr. Tamice Spencer-Helms. They talk to us about finding uncoerced worship amongst the redwood trees, the beauty in connecting with other folks who invite us into our own aliveness, and all the ways we are being asked to remember that we ARE nature. What if we started actually emulating Jesus? What beauty and healing could come from us wandering around in wild spaces with our weird friends? Tamice shares about finding a deep well of courage from their ancestors and from within in one of our favorite interviews of Season 2. Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth 03:02 Embracing Ancestry and Nature 05:53 Navigating Identity and Belonging 09:04 The Power of Non-Coercive Worship 12:03 Reconnecting with Intuition 14:57 Expanding Spiritual Frameworks 17:54 The Great Awakening and Community 20:57 Wandering Together in Faith 30:07 The Power of Community and Flock Religion 31:04 The Hush Harbor: A Historical Perspective 34:47 Resurrection Technology: The Impulse for Freedom 42:34 Courage in the Face of Adversity 48:59 Rethinking Freedom and Resistance 54:52 Wrestling with Scripture and Spirituality | |||
| Bill Holston Believes in Safe Housing for All | 07 May 2025 | 00:59:40 | |
Bill Holston, CEO of Dallas Eviction Advocacy Center, joins us today on the pod! We hear from Bill about eviction advocacy, the importance of all people having access to representation and safe housing, as well as how he finds connection and rest in nature during these trying times. What can we learn when we reflect on the slow movement of the trout lily? Bill reminds us that oftentimes advocacy work begins with noticing what’s happening in our towns and to our neighbors. What have you noticed lately that breaks your heart or invites you into advocacy? By all means, pay attention, and get started on the good work of doing your good work, friends. Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 The Beauty of Nature and Spirituality 03:04 Pilgrimage: A Journey of Purpose 06:02 Nature's Influence on Personal Growth 09:01 Justice and Advocacy: A Life's Calling 11:49 Faith and Activism: A Complex Relationship 14:51 Dallas: A City of History and Justice 18:10 Nature's Tenacity and Fragility 21:05 The Importance of Companionship in the Journey 33:45 Finding a Church That Aligns with Values 34:10 The Role of Churches in Social Justice 36:34 The Gap Between Desire and Action 39:18 Practical Solutions for Asylum Seekers 42:08 Finding Beauty in Nature 46:30 The Power of Small Actions 49:42 Navigating Hope and Despair 52:43 Understanding Hope vs. Optimism 55:35 Connecting with Community and Nature | |||
| Rev. Tim Clifford Invites Us to Reengage Joy | 30 Apr 2025 | 00:42:23 | |
This week we chat with Rev. Tim Clifford about his journey out of cynicism and how he’s learning to reengage with joy. Tim’s substack, Theology of a Recovering Cynic, follows his movement back towards a truer version of himself through endurance sports, theology, TTRPG’s, imagination, and more. In these dark times it can be tempting to give into cynicism and hopelessness. Rev. Tim reminds us that we can walk a different path, one that’s intentional and filled with curiosity and connection. Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 The Power of Love and Connection 06:29 Endurance and Personal Growth 10:55 The Nature of Love 15:45 Theological Reflections on Power 20:00 Endurance Sports and Spiritual Resilience 28:00 The Importance of Self-Care in Ministry 29:53 Overcoming Cynicism Through Endurance 31:23 Guides on the Journey: Theological and Athletic 34:03 Finding Inspiration in Community 35:17 The Meditative Nature of Endurance Sports 37:04 Rest and Hobbies: Balancing Life and Wellness 40:16 Creation as a Route Away from Cynicism 42:30 Integrating Theology and Daily Life 43:00 Connecting Through Community and Events | |||
| Reciprocity and Flow with Melissa Fritchle | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:58:24 | |
We chat all about relational flow today with eco spiritual director, soul guide, holistic psychotherapist, author, and two time Radical Sacred guest Melissa Fritchle! When we begin to build our relationships based on reciprocity and flow beautiful new pathways begin to emerge. Join us for this invitational conversation on interdependence, creativity, intimacy, and following our yearning. Cool stuff we mention in this week’s episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 The Poetic Introduction 02:39 Exploring Soul Guidance 03:36 Understanding Reciprocity 10:27 Transcending Expectations 16:15 From Scarcity to Abundance 22:56 Embracing Discomfort for Growth 27:26 Creativity in Discomfort 31:43 Reconnecting with Yearning 35:02 The Nature of Suffering and Happiness 37:38 Redefining Work and Retirement 39:33 The Importance of Intimacy 43:12 The Role of Ceremony and Ritual 55:29 Embracing Reciprocity in Relationships | |||
| Pilgrimage with Pegasus | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:59:36 | |
This week’s episode is a creative and soulful collab with Stephanie Adelina and Satchel Victory of Pegasus Tattoo and Wellness! While Stephanie gives Jenny a gorgeous strawberry tattoo we chat about trauma informed care, creating safe spaces for everyone, therapy and the coming together of all of the above. Steph and Satchel share with us about being partners in life and in business and all the ways care, connection, and community can bring us together. What happens when tattooing and wellness are combined in an inclusive space? Join us to find out! Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways): https://boykeats.tumblr.com/post/708923399751286784/the-strawberry-poem-by-keaton-st-james-patreon
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| BONUS - Easter Vigil | 19 Apr 2025 | 00:35:33 | |
On this bonus episode we talk about vigil and the things that call to the depths of our hearts. What can’t you turn away from? What is currently calling you to deep attention and care? We chat about swans, the weird wildness of the Easter Vigil, following our joy and our heartbreak, and everything in between. May you turn your loving gaze to the places and spaces that invite you into vigil. And may your loving gaze be the spark that ignites the flame of your actions. Cool stuff we mention in this week’s episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Radical Sacred and Wild Goose Festival 04:01 Easter Vigil: A Time of Reflection 08:09 The Importance of Sitting Vigil 11:55 Experiencing Grief and Loss 15:58 The Journey of Vigil and Resurrection 19:57 Nature as a Source of Vigil 24:08 The Complexity of Modern Church Services 27:50 Finding Joy in Vigil 31:55 The Call to Attention and Action 36:05 Conclusion: Embracing the Fullness of Life | |||
| Church of the Wild Field Guide Conversation with Victoria Loorz and Valerie Luna Serrels | 16 Apr 2025 | 01:01:38 | |
We chat with Victoria Loorz and Valerie Luna Serrels about their fabulous new offering: Field Guide to the Church of the Wild. Victoria and Valerie are sisters who create uniquely wild offerings through Seminary of the Wild Earth, eco spiritual direction training and more. In this honest and deeply rooted conversation we learn how Victoria and Valerie are creating a mycelial hub for the emerging wild spirituality movement. When we listen to the wild call of our hearts what might we discover? How can being in relationship with the more than human earth transform how we see all things? Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 Listening to the Land: A Spiritual Practice 10:07 Reimagining Roles and Language in Spiritual Leadership 20:00 The Intersection of Process Theology and Wild Church 29:51 Rituals as a Means of Connection and Healing 39:47 Witnessing Urban Nature: Finding the Wild in Concrete 44:05 Technology and Nature: A New Paradigm 49:50 Embracing Grief and Joy in Community 54:44 Reciprocity: The Essence of Relationships 59:56 Finding Sacredness in Place | |||
| Hunter Mobley on the Enneagram and Contemplation: The Journey Back to Who You Are | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:44:06 | |
This week we are joined by Hunter Mobley, Enneagram teacher, speaker, and author of the fabulous new book Letting Go, Finding You. We dive deep with Hunter into contemplation and the Enneagram. If “contemplation is a long loving look”, how might Enneagram wisdom and contemplating flow together? Hunter invites us into a gentler, more hope filled way of viewing the Enneagram and ourselves. https://www.broadleafbooks.com/store/product/9798889831655/Letting-Go-Finding-You
00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery 02:20 Introduction to the Enneagram 03:48 Pilgrimage and the Enneagram 07:22 Contemplation and Spirituality 12:05 Personal Journey and Integration 20:47 The Journey of Contemplation 23:19 Contemplation and the Heart Center 27:53 Understanding the Enneagram and Contemplation 33:59 Empathy and the Enneagram 37:17 The Interconnection of Wisdom Traditions | |||
| John Philip Newell on St. Brigid and Finding the Address of our Hearts | 02 Apr 2025 | 01:00:05 | |
We are honored and delighted to have this gorgeous conversation with the one and only John Phillip Newell. John Phillip chats with us about St. Brigid, having rituals in these unsettling times, connection to the earth, and everything in between. As we stand in the thresholds of life, how might we draw upon the courage and wisdom of St. Brigid? John Phillip invites us to delight in where we are and to find the addresses of our own hearts, wherever they may dwell. Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways):
00:00 Awakening to the Divine Within 02:25 Journey to Fintorn: A Sacred Community 06:32 The Essence of Pilgrimage 17:20 Attention as Prayer: A Mindful Approach 21:48 St. Bridget: Myth and Midwifery 28:04 Imagination and Prophetic Wisdom 32:53 Imagining a New Future 33:57 Bridging Wisdom Traditions 34:55 Responding to Authority and Generosity 39:45 The Spirit of Our Time 43:57 Understanding Brokenness vs. Woundedness 51:00 The Role of Ritual in Transformation | |||
| Journey to Building an Inclusive Future with Mary Jo Schnell | 26 Mar 2025 | 01:12:15 | |
Humbled by this lovely conversation with the Executive Director of OutCenter, Mary Jo Schnell. Mary Jo talks to us about leading with empathy and listening deeply to all people, even those we fundamentally disagree with. We can’t connect with others in meaningful ways if we don’t “stay at the table.” Mary Jo walks us through a vision of building an inclusive future rooted in community, equality for all, and intersectionality. May we each be the vision bearers and light bringers for such a beautiful future. Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery 02:41 The Role of the Out Center 05:12 Mary Jo's Background and Nonprofit Experience 10:25 Building Community and Support for LGBTQ Youth 16:15 The Importance of Education and Advocacy 21:24 Navigating Systemic Challenges 26:17 Guides and Influences on the Journey 36:30 The Unmasking of the Movement 38:29 Community Resilience and Local Action 43:42 Empathy as a Tool for Connection 48:53 Navigating Tyranny and Advocacy 58:54 The Importance of Staying at the Table | |||
| Rev. Jeremy Steele and the Pilgrimage of a Skeptic | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:49:04 | |
Rev. Jeremy Steele takes us on the journey of a skeptic building an open hearted online community rooted in deep questions and care. Jeremy’s new book “How not to suck as a Christian” is an honest reflection of his own faith pilgrimage. Through his Skeptic Pastor account on Tik-Tok Jeremy has found that beneath the most frequently asked questions he gets online are people looking for connection and for authenticity, no matter their background. What big questions do you have that you’ve been made to feel aren’t welcome in certain faith spaces? Rev. Jeremy not only has room for the hard questions, but welcomes them. What might shift for us if we viewed our questions as important guides for our spiritual journey and not something to fear or avoid? Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Radical Sacred and Mary Oliver's Poem 01:15 Meet Jeremy Steele: A Journey of Faith and Skepticism 03:30 Exploring the Book: How to Not Suck as a Christian 06:08 The Role of Technology in Modern Ministry 08:22 Connecting with Diverse Spiritual Communities 12:35 Mysticism and Spirituality Beyond Traditional Beliefs 18:20 Understanding God: A Linguistic Perspective 20:45 Embracing Mystery in Times of Crisis 23:45 The Power of Relationships in Spirituality 26:02 Wrestling with Doubt and Spiritual Growth 26:54 The Role of Skepticism in Faith 29:01 Guides and Influences on Spiritual Journeys 32:18 Understanding Spirit Guides 33:49 Navigating Foreign Lands in Spirituality 42:51 The Power of Narrative in Spiritual Experience | |||
| Melissa Fritchle’s Journey into Conscious Sex | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:54:20 | |
“Yearning is good….it’s a gift.” -Melissa Fritchle Melissa Fritchle is a psychotherapist, eco spirituality guide, author of the Conscious Sexual Self Workbook, a meditation and mindfulness teacher, and that’s just scratching the surface! In this honest conversation we talk about following our own yearning, conscious sex as a way of living more open heartedly, and all the ways our lives begin to open up when we’re honest about who we are and what we want. How can having more conscious sex shape not only our more intimate moments but our spirituality and our interconnectedness with all the things that make us feel most alive? Diving into our desires is necessary, albeit sometimes intimidating, work. Our aliveness and our awakeness matter so deeply, let’s journey into more consciousness together! Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 Reclaiming the Moment: Presence and Connection 03:04 Exploring Conscious Sexuality and Body Awareness 05:39 The Journey of Yearning: Understanding Our Desires 08:27 Mindfulness and Sensation: Tuning into Pleasure 10:52 Navigating Yearnings: Embracing Our Needs 13:44 Dancing Through Hard Times: The Importance of Joy 16:35 Nature's Teachings: Eco-Spirituality and Belonging 28:28 Reimagining Wellness and Spirituality 30:59 Nature, Diversity, and Queerness 33:36 Embodying Queerness in Community 36:56 Guides on the Spiritual Journey 39:39 The Role of Presence in Relationships 45:07 Navigating Sexuality and Aging 49:47 Curiosity and the Pilgrimage of Life | |||
| Beyond Data into Depth with Andrew Wermelskirchen | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:55:05 | |
We love an interview with someone we both love dearly who also happens to run a gorgeous newsletter! Today we interview Andrew Wermelskirchen about his substack offering for educators and religious leaders: Observations of a Nobody. What can happen when we connect with others via curiosity through open ended, open hearted questions? We chat with one of our favorite somebody’s about creative offerings, open hearted living, and leading with vulnerability. Do you have something on your heart and mind that won’t let you go? Then by all means, dive into it! Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways): Chapters 00:00 The Genesis of Creation and Time 02:53 Friendship and Shared Experiences 05:53 Navigating Personal Identity and Professional Paths 08:22 Introducing the Newsletter: Observations from a Nobody 11:17 The Power of Self-Perception and Language 14:04 Curiosity as a Driving Force in Education 16:56 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance 19:49 Engaging with Questions and Community 22:47 The Importance of Curiosity in Learning 29:38 The Good Samaritan: A Lesson for Middle Schoolers 33:32 Personal Reflections on Assumptions 36:37 The Importance of Formational Questions 38:12 Depth vs. Data in Communication 43:12 Engaging Conversations and Community 46:48 Facing Fears in Creative Expression 51:33 Guides and Community Support | |||
| Feeling Your Way Through Grief with Missy Buchanan | 26 Feb 2025 | 00:47:05 | |
This week we journey with author and speaker Missy Buchanan into an honest exploration into grief. What happens when our life is upended by grief? Missy chats with us about the sudden loss of her husband Barry, her realization that a lot of materials around grief are lacking in authenticity and vulnerability, and her determination to “feel her way through grief” in a way that felt true to her. When we grieve honestly and invite others to do the same, lives are changed and doors are opened. Though none of us would pick grief as our teacher, what do we learn when we honestly encounter it and allow it to guide us? Cool stuff we mentioned this episode (or meant to anyways): https://missybuchanan.com/ Chapters 00:00 Understanding Grief: A Matter of the Heart 02:49 Missy Buchanan's Journey Through Grief 04:23 The Impact of Clichés in Grief 10:12 Cultural Perspectives on Grief 12:35 Rituals and Remembrance in Grief 15:22 The Sacredness of Tears and Vulnerability 18:54 The Pilgrimage of Grief: Finding Guidance 22:01 Understanding the Ongoing Journey of Grief 25:24 Building Community in Times of Grief 28:30 The Importance of Presence in Grief 34:02 Feeling Through Grief: Embracing Emotions 37:17 Rituals and Remembrance: Honoring Loved Ones 40:57 Finding Joy Amidst Grief 42:56 Resources for Healing and Connection | |||
| Reciprocity is at the Heart of Parrott Creek | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:55:23 | |
Simon Fulford and Ame Mañon-Ferguson of Parrott Creek Child and Family Services chat with us about reimaging trauma healing and the expansive, gorgeous work they do for families and the 80 acres of land that surrounds their site. We were blown away by their care and intentionality with the folks they serve with and through their Cultural Ecology Project. We learn about treating all people with unconditional positive regard and about what happens when folks healing from trauma heal in an intentional community and heal with and alongside nature. Our hearts and minds were expanded by this lovely conversation. Cool stuff we mention on this weeks episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 The Power of Poetry and Introduction to Parrott Creek 01:25 Understanding Parrott Creek's Mission and History 05:35 Cultural Ecology and Land Stewardship 09:53 The Healing Power of Nature 14:36 Measuring Success Beyond Metrics 19:06 Unconditional Positive Regard and Trauma-Informed Care 23:26 Community Engagement and Restorative Justice 28:06 Finding Inspiration and Hope in Nature 32:30 Supporting Indigenous Communities and Local Initiatives 36:59 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action | |||
| Pilgrimage for Nerds with Rev. Nathan Webb | 19 Feb 2025 | 00:56:20 | |
At the heart of Rev. Nathan Webb’s creative, online community is storytelling, loving connection, and curiosity. We journey with Nathan as he talks to us about the beauty and complexities of pastoring and world building in digital spaces. We delve into pilgrimage through gaming and our minds are blown by the possibilities. What can happen when a church decides to be a community of misfits doing their best to build one another up? Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways): Checkpoint Church
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Radical Sacred and Checkpoint Church 03:00 The Digital First Approach of Checkpoint Church 06:01 Nerdy Sermons and Community Engagement 08:43 The Intersection of Storytelling and Spirituality 11:19 Navigating Parenting and Media Consumption 14:11 Creating Safe Spaces in Digital Communities 16:40 The Journey of Pilgrimage in Digital Space 19:23 Experiencing Catharsis Through Gaming 22:29 Reflections on Vulnerability and Community 25:11 The Power of Shared Experiences in Digital Pilgrimages 27:49 The Impact of Digital Ministry 27:55 Engaging with New Audiences 31:28 The Question of Incarnation in Digital Spaces 38:02 Innovative Approaches to Pastoral Care 39:50 Learning from Failures in Digital Ministry 42:49 Exploring Future Possibilities in Digital Church 46:22 Curiosity and Adaptability in Spirituality 51:21 Favorite Anime and Gaming Recommendations | |||
| Walking Brigid's Way with Dr. Karen Ward | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:49:55 | |
Dr. Karen Ward joins us today as we chat about Ireland’s Saint Brigid who is just as rooted in celtic folklore as she is steeped in Catholic tradition. Who was Brigid really? Karen walks us through the journey of a woman who was both the saint of poems, midwifery, Ale and blacksmithing and who was also a fire goddess. The mythology of Brigid is vast and invitational and in these troubled times we are all invited to delve into the story of a woman who became a symbol for new life springing forth in the darkness of the midwinter. As we journey through Brigid’s Path in this hopeful episode, may we each be imbibed with her spirit of resilience and transcendence and remember that we too have the eternal flame within us that can never be extinguished. Cool stuff we mention in this episode (or meant to anyways)
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to St. Brigid and Dr. Karen Ward 04:41 Syncretism: Bridging Paganism and Christianity 07:35 Personal Journey: Discovering St. Brigid 15:21 The Birth of Brigid's Way: A Pilgrimage Journey 20:48 Trusting the Inner Voice on the Pilgrimage 26:34 The Journey of Faith and Pilgrimage 29:20 Preparing for Pilgrimage: Physical and Spiritual Aspects 31:57 Brigid's Wisdom in Troubling Times 39:18 The Power of Community and Shared Faith 41:22 Stories of Brigid: Lessons in Generosity and Unity | |||
| Where We’re From and What We’re Rooted In | 05 Feb 2025 | 00:46:10 | |
We are in the darkness of the womb right now, in the midwinter. What are we going to birth forth? This week we talk about where we’re from and where we’re currently taking root in these uncertain times. In seasons of upheaval it helps to remember who our safe spaces are, what weird stuff the soft animal of our body loves, and how we can integrate all we’ve been with who we are and what is ours to do right now. If, like us, you find yourself wandering through the wilderness of the current moment, here are some questions we hope help tether you back to you.
00:00 Pilgrimage and the Power of Place 01:47 Distractions on the Journey 03:27 Reintroducing Radical Sacred 07:34 The Evolution of Spirituality 10:53 Reflections on Past Beliefs 14:46 The Nature of Change in Faith 23:26 The Transformative Power of Love 25:43 Empathy and Connection in Challenging Times 27:28 Finding Joy and Community Amidst Chaos 32:50 Anchoring Spirituality in Changing Times 39:01 Embracing Authenticity and Personal Growth | |||
| The Allurement of Nature: A Spiritual Journey with Victoria Loorz | 29 Jan 2025 | 01:02:19 | |
“We have lost relational language for the natural world and lost part of our own souls along with it.” - Victoria Loorz, author of Church of the Wild Wild Church Pastor, Eco Spiritual Director, author and founder of Center for Wild Spirituality Victoria Loorz wants us to reimagine our own wildness and our interconnectedness to the earth. Victoria’s invitation to reciprocity, relational language, and choosing to belong wherever you are is a breath of fresh mountain air in these tense times. In the face of looming empire Victoria honestly talks about what we’re facing and also imbibes us with the hope that can be found when we recognize the innate and inherent value in every living being. We are grateful for Victoria, her work around rewilding, and her reminder that the earth deeply loves us. Cool stuff we mentioned this episode (or meant to anyways): Church of the Wild by Victoria Loorz Seminary of the Wild Earth Eco Spiritual Direction Braiding Sweet Grass by: Robin Wall Kimmerer Matter and Desire: An Erotic Ecology by: Andreas Weber Chapters 00:00 The Allurement of Nature and Spiritual Connection 04:30 Journey to the Center for Wild Spirituality 09:00 Exploring the Sacred in Nature 12:55 The Role of Conversation in Spirituality 17:40 Grief, Connection, and the Presence of the Holy 21:59 Finding Belonging in Unfamiliar Places 32:36 The Spiritual Connection with Nature 38:07 Language and Worldview: Nouns vs. Verbs 44:46 The Role of Religion in Shifting Worldviews 51:01 Reciprocity in Nature and Relationships | |||
| Rooted in a Future for Good: Inauguration Episode with Neil Moseley | 20 Jan 2025 | 00:59:27 | |
Neil Moseley, consultant, bird guide, and all around lovely human joins us for this Inauguration Day special. When we dig at the root of the word Inauguration we find an invitation to cast a future of our own imagining. If today feels particularly challenging to you, we want you to know that you are in good company. This conversation invites us all to notice how we feel, admit the reality of the challenges we face, to spend time processing with our best dumb-dumbs, to check in on our neighbors, and to be attuned to our intuition. In this next Trump era we invite you to be rooted in community, allurement, and love. We get to cast the future, friends. Let’s collectively make it something beautiful for all people. Cool stuff we mention this episode (or meant to anyways): Pleasure Activism by: Adrienne Maree Brown The Three Evils of Society by MLK Jr. Exodus 1 Spell for Grief or letting Go by: Adrienne Maree Brown Where to Find Neil Moseley: He cannot be found. As always, reach out to us if you are looking for community to process! Chapters 00:00 A Spell for Grief: Embracing Loss and Healing 05:02 The Meaning of Inauguration: Etymology and Future 12:58 Exodus and Oppression: Lessons from History 21:13 Local Organizing: Building Community in Difficult Times 26:05 The Importance of Community Connections 30:41 Finding Joy in Simple Organizing 36:20 Nature and Spiritual Connection 41:09 Intuition and Truth in Activism 50:24 The Slow and Mysterious Work of Change | |||
| Nathan Shultz on the Wisdom of Wild Places | 15 Jan 2025 | 00:45:27 | |
Nathan Schultz, founder of Path Wise Ventures, joins us today to talk about the wisdom of wild places. Raised as a missionary kid outdoors, Nathan’s journey from coporate funraising to pilgrimage leader is one of following his own interior knowing. We dive into the importance of connecting with natural spaces, of following the call of our hearts, and of embracing mystery. Nathan’s imaginative view of the world reminds us that we’d all be better off if we remembered we were friends with the trees. Cool stuff we mentioned this episode (or meant to anyways): Path Wise Ventures Center for Wild Spirituality Sometimes a Wild God - Tom Hirons Matthew Fox Bill Plotkin - Animist (Eco psychology) Gilead - Marilynne Robinson When I was the Forest - Meister Eckhart Chapters 00:00 Exploring John Muir's Legacy and Evolution 02:44 Nathan's Journey: From Missionary Kid to Eco-Spirituality 05:40 The Concept of Rewilding and Its Personal Impact 08:31 Walking in Reciprocity: A New Perspective on Pilgrimage 11:21 Resistance and Transformation on the Spiritual Path 13:59 Embodiment and the Journey Within 16:47 The Monotony of Pilgrimage: Finding Depth in Repetition 25:54 Nature as a Spiritual Guide 27:41 Exploring Eco-Spirituality and Healing 29:00 Encountering the Wild God 31:25 Sources of Inspiration and Wisdom 35:25 The Call for Reciprocity with Nature 36:31 Emerging from Extinction: A New Perspective 39:12 Building Communities for Sustainability 39:18 Delighting in Connection with Nature 43:00 Finding Guidance in Nature | |||
| Carl McColman Invites Us into Mystery | 08 Jan 2025 | 01:04:50 | |
This week pilgrimage with us into the expansive mind of spiritual director, author, and contemplative teacher Carl McColman. Carl’s vast knowledge of mysticism, Thomas Merton, and contemplative concepts makes this a fascinating and open ended conversation. Carl walks us through four fundamental questions he journeys through as a spiritual director: Throughout this imaginative chat we are reminded of what is possible when we approach the world in a spirit of hospitality and carve out time for intentional silence.
Cool things we mentioned this episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 The Epiphany of Thomas Merton 02:54 Introducing Carl McColman 05:51 The Influence of Monastic Spirituality 08:33 The Importance of the Interior Life 11:30 The Future of Christianity and Mysticism 22:28 Understanding Mysticism 32:41 Entering Silence: Practical Steps 38:09 Embracing Silence and Solitude 40:55 The Journey of Self-Discovery 43:11 Understanding Relationships: Who Am I and Who Are They? 46:39 Saint Makers: Growth Through Conflict 48:32 Metaphors of Mysticism: Marriage and Pilgrimage 50:35 Interfaith Dialogue and Spiritual Growth | |||
| Cheers to an Enchanting New Year | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:34:19 | |
Cheers to you dear listeners! Thank you for your support of Radical Sacred. This week we reminisce on all the ways the year has unfolded since our first episode of 2024 and we look towards our hopes and discuss our honest fears for 2025. Join us as we choose an intentional word as we head into this new year. Even if you’re not down with the Gregorian calendar, we recognize the beauty and potential of viewing each day as a new beginning. Cool stuff we talked about this episode (or meant to anyways): Radical Sacred 2024 New Year’s Episode Rob Bell Episode Kelly and Jess Love Story The Enchanted Life By Sharon Blackie A Benediction for the New Year by Sophie Strand For a New Beginning by John O’Donohue Chapters 00:00 A New Year Benediction 06:33 Nature's Healing Power 12:05 Tools for Self-Reflection 17:18 Exploring Enchantment: Four Aspects of Connection 22:46 Imagination and Childhood: Rediscovering Enchantment 28:26 Embracing Creation: A New Year’s Intention | |||
| Y'all Want to See a Fresh Baby? | 25 Dec 2024 | 00:28:19 | |
Quick note, we had a little issue with Jenny's audio in this episode. Apologies for the few places her audio drops out. If you have questions about what she said, or you think she said, feel free to reach out to us! Merry Christmas from Radical Sacred! This week we went on a walk instead of having a meeting and it unexpectedly led to the delight of holding a friend's brand new baby. When we’re met with the Incarnation of God in a beautiful moment whether it be through the story of Mary’s Journey and the birth of Jesus or through holding a neighbors “fresh baby” we are reminded that God is with us and invites us into Incarnation as well. This Christmas season we invite you to listen to this episode and think about the ways you too can tap into the depth and breadth and love of Mary’s sacred heart. Cool things we talked about this episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 Christmas Reflections and Introductions 04:24 Mary's Journey and the Magnificat 08:43 The Importance of Community and Support 13:00 The Significance of the Incarnation 16:47 Songs of the Season and New Beginnings | |||
| Winter Solstice and the Pilgrimage of the Firefly | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:42:39 | |
When the seasons are changing how do we respond? This episode we talk about the light that is found when we begin to look within, the wisdom of learning to walk in the darkness, and the different ways that we can honor the changing weather and our changing humanity. Whether we call it Winter Solstice, Advent, or simply the movement from fall to winter- how are we being invited into our own depths and what will our response be? Cool stuff we mentioned this week (or meant to anyways): Find "Common Eastern Firefly" in the book "All Creation Waits: The Advent Mystery of New Beginnings" Snowy Night by Mary Oliver Advent from a United Methodist Perspective Advent: In Anticipation Winter Solstice To Know the Dark by: Wendell Berry Barbara Brown Taylor Chapters 00:00 The Life Cycle of Fireflies: A Metaphor for Transformation 05:22 The Winter Solstice: A Time for Reflection and Growth 10:54 The Beauty of the Night Sky: Nature's Wonder 16:22 The Journey of Advent: Waiting and Anticipation 21:52 Apocalyptic Texts: The Promise of New Birth 27:00 The Journey into Darkness 32:17 Disorder, Reorder, and Orientation 37:28 Finding Connection in the Dark | |||
| Kenneth McIntosh on the Reciprocity of Interspirituality | 05 Nov 2025 | 01:02:37 | |
We are thrilled to welcome author, pastor, and thinker, Kenneth McIntosh to the pod! We chat about his book Oak and Lotus and how his life has been shaped by Celtic Christianity along with Buddhism. How might our spirituality shift and change in unexpected directions if we were open to new pathways? If you’ve ever been curious about interspirituality this lovely and invitational episode is for you. Cool stuff we mention on this week’s episode (or meant to anyways): Chapters 00:00 Seeing Christ in Everyday Life 01:18 Introduction to Celtic Spirituality 02:16 Understanding Interspirituality 04:23 Kenneth's Spiritual Journey 12:50 Transcending Evangelicalism 16:18 Celtic and Eastern Spiritual Connections 24:49 Interspirituality and Personal Growth 32:38 Reconceiving Jesus: An Eastern Wisdom Teacher 35:34 Understanding Taoism: Flowing with the Divine 39:59 Everyday Mysticism: Trusting Intuition and Spirit 41:29 Thin Places: Encounters with the Divine 49:17 Reciprocity: Openness and Inter-Spirituality | |||
| Pilgrimage into Storytelling with Kim Powers | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:51:36 | |
This was a fun and wide ranging conversation with visual artist Kim Powers! Kim shares with us the importance of storytelling and the ways that our stories can either bring us together or tear us apart. We talk about why art and beauty matters, particularly when everything feels kind of dark and the importance of finding the wholeness of all the things. Kim invites us to make room for the fullness of others, and in doing so, we also make room for the fullness of ourselves. Cool stuff we talked about this episode (or meant to anyways):
00:00 The Power of Art as Sanctuary 02:39 Creative Pilgrimage and Personal Journeys 05:29 Storytelling as a Connective Tissue 08:13 The Nature of Pilgrimage 10:52 Spirituality and Creativity Intertwined 13:19 Navigating Foreign Lands in Storytelling 16:08 The Wholeness of People in Storytelling 18:55 Safety and Fear in Narrative 21:38 Creating Tension vs. Fear in Theater 24:25 The Impact of Audience Expectations 27:00 Balancing Personal and Professional Life 31:23 Re-centering and Finding Balance 32:42 Guides and Relationships 34:23 The Importance of Connection 36:13 Branching Out and Expanding Worlds 38:04 Creativity and Imagining Possibilities 39:47 Art as a Reflection of Reality 43:50 Balancing Activism and Enjoyment | |||
| Pilgrimage Can Be a Real Trip with Rev. Kerra English | 04 Dec 2024 | 00:43:40 | |
We are thrilled to have Reverend Kerra English, spiritual director, retreat leader, pastor, and a no bullshit guide join us today to talk about the many pathways of pilgrimage. In this invitational and thoughtful conversation Kerra talks to us about leading with curiosity, recognizing when things need to shift, and all the ways that pilgrimage is really about opening your eyes, your heart and your mind, to the world around you. When we are invited into new ways of knowing whether it be through a conversation with a fellow traveler, or through a Psilocybin study at John’s Hopkins, we become more ourselves. We are thankful to Kerra for her work in the world and for her new book dropping in June of 2025 True Awakening: The Highs, the Lows, and the Mess of Spiritual Transformation. Cool stuff we talked about this episode (or meant to anyways): Chapters 00:00 The Essence of Love and Community 03:28 Curiosity as a Spiritual Gift 08:40 Understanding Pilgrimage 13:45 Navigating the Dark Night of the Soul 18:41 The Importance of Community and Vulnerability 21:47 Guidance Through Change and Despair 24:02 The Quest for Authentic Truth 25:34 Braving the Wilderness: Spiritual Journeys 27:56 Courageous Spirituality and Personal Growth 32:34 Transformation in the Dark 35:38 Exploring Psychedelic Spirituality 38:55 Building Community and Connection 43:05 Exploring Key Themes and Insights | |||
| Keep Your Fork with Rev. Ashley Anne Sipe | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:48:07 | |
This week we are thankful for this gorgeous conversation with Rev. Ashley Anne Sipe of Vista Ridge UMC! Ashley Anne walks us through her own pilgrimage which began with an honest conversation and call out from a fellow clergy woman. This thoughtful invitation is about learning to walk in our own darkness, the truly radical practice of loving all that is, and the deeply intimate connection that only comes with vulnerability. We are grateful for Ashley Anne and for her reminder in these wild times to “keep your fork cause sweeter things are coming”. We are also grateful for you, our dear listeners! We know that this holiday season might be tricky to navigate. A gentle reminder to take good care and keep your fork. You are not alone and you are loved deeply by the very source of love. Cool stuff we mentioned in this episode (or meant to anyways): https://interactioninstitute.org/the-growing-edge-2/
Chapters 00:00 The Growing Edge: A Journey of Hope 02:57 Defining Pilgrimage: A Spiritual Journey 05:54 Personal Pilgrimages: Stories of Transformation 09:07 Embracing Darkness: The Journey Within 12:02 The Monster Within: Understanding Our Shadows 14:40 Pastoral Care: A Shift in Perspective 17:53 Building Community Through Vulnerability 26:00 Embracing Vulnerability in Leadership 28:10 The Power of Mystics in Healing 30:54 Navigating Paradoxes of Faith 34:29 From Orthodoxy to Orthopraxy 38:59 The Challenge of Radical Love 39:32 Finding Hope Through Childlike Wonder 43:45 Chasing Beauty and Gratitude | |||
| Pilgrimage in the Prepositions | 20 Nov 2024 | 00:41:25 | |
In this conversation we explore Phil's recent experience at Princeton, focusing on the importance of grounding oneself in nature and the significance of understanding one's purpose. We talk about the need for beauty and play in life, especially during challenging times, and the importance of creating spaces for risk-taking and personal growth. We talk about calling through the lens of prepostions: called by, called to, called with, and called away from as a bonus. Some of the people referenced in this episode: Chapters00:00 Exploring Vocation and Nature 05:51 The Call: Understanding Our Purpose 11:59 Identifying What We Are Called Toward 18:00 The Importance of Beauty and Play in Life 24:06 The Power of Shared Experiences 25:33 Exploring the Concept of Calling 26:55 Biblical Figures as Guides 28:09 Understanding Ecclesiastes 30:49 Life's Meaning Through Mortality 31:43 Influential Historical Figures 32:58 The Impact of Fiction on Theology 36:40 Contemporary Influences in Faith 38:54 The Call to Stay and Serve 40:11 Finding Beauty in Change | |||
| The Journey from Fiction to Non-Fiction with Rob Bell | 13 Nov 2024 | 01:07:38 | |
Rob Bell joins us today in this post election haze. His hopeful and honest insight is sooooo good. Rob talks to us about pilgrimage and books 1 and 2 of his imaginative, beautiful series - Where’d You Park Your Spaceship. We are beyond grateful to share space with this fabulous author, speaker, thinker, and artist! You can find Rob Bell’s work, including his podcast, The Robcast, on Patreon. We begin and end this episode with Mary Oliver’s poem Instructions for Living a Life. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Post-Election Emotions 03:00 The Journey from Nonfiction to Fiction 05:38 The Art of Naming and Character Development 08:41 Exploring Female Perspectives in Storytelling 11:44 The Role of Creativity and Joy in Life 14:45 The Impact of Relationships on Personal Growth 31:34 Trusting in Abundance and Generativity 32:34 Hope in Uncertainty 33:24 Reimagining Work and Community 35:14 The Death of Mythologies 37:31 Navigating Grief and Panic 39:19 Creating Space for Presence 41:09 The Role of the Individual in Change 43:12 The Art of Noticing 44:59 The Death of Fantasy 46:44 Embracing Vulnerability 48:22 The Journey of Self-Discovery 50:25 Graciousness in the Process 52:20 The Experiment of Democracy 54:14 The Call of Water and Nature | |||
| From Scotland to Home: Bridging Pilgrimage Experiences with Rev. Alexa Eisenbarth | 06 Nov 2024 | 01:02:09 | |
“One pilgrim makes a zealot, two pilgrims makes a pilgrimage” - Ted Lasso Rev. Alexa Eisenbarth, Associate Pastor of First Olympia UMC joins us today to talk about how her own personal pilgrimage to Scotland translated to her walking with her fellow pilgrims in her home of Olympia, WA and the importance of not going it alone. What do we learn when we go out walking long distances with others? And what can we learn from pilgrimage about the importance of rhythm, care, and rest both individually and in community? We talk about the softening that happens in true community, trees, and how our homes are just as sacred as the places we journey to. Alexa invited us into a ton of imaginative thinking and we know y’all will enjoy hearing this one!Cool stuff we mentioned this episode (or meant to anyways):
Questions Alexa’s Group Processed while on pilgrimage that you may want to sit with in this post election time period : (from the Parish Collective)
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Pilgrimage and Community Engagement 04:38 The Experience of Pilgrimage in Scotland 10:17 The Spiritual and Emotional Aspects of Group Pilgrimage 16:33 The Enneagram Perspective on Pilgrimage 21:11 Bridging Experiences: From Scotland to Local Community 26:56 Creating Neighborhood Pilgrimages and Collective Reflection 36:01 The Power of Civic Life 38:46 Understanding Our Neighborhoods 39:58 Defining Neighborliness 42:37 The Role of Community in Education 47:21 The Significance of Trees 54:05 Navigating Political Challenges 59:58 A Call to Action | |||
| Pilgrimage Begins with The Door | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:30:54 | |
An important part of pilgrimage is noticing the invitations that are all around us. Every pilgrimage begins with recognizing. What is inviting you to more of you and how can we recognize the doors that are for us. As you move through the world the next couple of weeks we wanted to give you practical advice on how to identify your own doors. Try 1 or 2 of these spiritual practices consistently and see what comes up for you in this time.
A Blessing Prayer in Difficult Times by John O’Donohue May you know tender shelter and healing blessing when you are called to stand in the place of pain. May the places of darkness within you be surprised by light. May you be granted the wisdom to avoid false resistance and when suffering knocks on the door of your life, may you be able to glimpse its hidden gift. May you be able to see the fruits of suffering. May memory bless and shelter you with the hard-earned light of past turmoil, to remind you that you have survived before, And though the darkness is now deep, You will soon see approaching light. May this give you confidence and trust. May a window of light always surprise you. May the grace of transfiguration heal your wounds. | |||
| The Journey to Integration using Internal Family Systems with Hillary Owen | 23 Oct 2024 | 01:02:27 | |
Hillary Owen of Driftwood Healing joins us again today inviting us to journey inward as she shares about Internal Family Systems. Hillary takes a complex topic like IFS and makes it easy by using imagery and storytelling. We learn that we all have different parts that make up our Internal Family Systems. All of our parts are inherently good but not all of our parts need to have the same authority in our lives. Hillary helps us journey through the expired behavior that is no longer serving us and reclaim the freedom of wholehearted living by embracing all of our parts. If you are interested in working through complex issues with compassionate care contact Driftwood Healing. Things we mentioned in this episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Internal Family Systems and Grief 04:26 Understanding Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy 09:47 The Role of Family in Internal Work 14:03 The Importance of Integration in Parts Work 18:43 Preparing for the Internal Journey 29:41 Engaging with Parts and Finding a Therapist 36:27 Navigating Spiritual Practices as a Parent 38:57 Understanding Self-Denial and Cooperation 42:10 The Role of Trauma and Mental Load in Identity 45:36 The Importance of Silence and Community 48:51 Integrating Parts Work and Enneagram Insights 53:49 Transformative Moments in Personal Growth 01:00:04 Resources for Deeper Understanding | |||
| Ty Pierce's Pilgrimage Journey on the Pacific Crest Trail | 16 Oct 2024 | 00:49:08 | |
This week we are thrilled to journey alongside Ty Pierce as he shares about his Pacific Crest Trail hike. Ty walks us through how a resolution to spend 15 nights outdoors and to seek out adventure led him to quitting his corporate job, and ultimately hitting a 2,650 mile trail spanning 3 states, Mexico, and Canada with an acquaintance who would turn into a best friend. Ty’s pilgrimage on the PCT was rigorous and pain filled. It also brought him profound joy, connections to many people he met on the trail, and the knowledge that he could overcome anything by putting one foot in front of the other. Ty’s ability to so willingly respond to the pull of his heart is a fabulous invitation to trust the soft animal of our body when it invites us into our own knowing. Cool stuff we mentioned in this episode (or meant to anyways): https://www.pcta.org/ Chapters00:00 Introduction to Pilgrimage and Personal Journeys 07:33 The Decision to Hike the Pacific Crest Trail 14:44 Preparing for the Journey: Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Aspects 18:31 Surprises and Challenges on the Trail 22:06 Understanding the Pacific Crest Trail 31:32 Encounters with Nature and Other Hikers 34:47 Lessons Learned from the Pacific Crest Trail 38:10 Encouragement for Future Pilgrims 40:21 Balancing Adventure and Family Life 43:15 Final Thoughts on Kindness and Joy | |||
| Jenny's Gulf Coast Pilgrimage | 09 Oct 2024 | 00:33:39 | |
Being folks who are typically more comfortable talking about things than actually doing the things, it was important to us to both take time this season to go on pilgrimages both big and small. In this episode Jenny reflects on her favorite place to pilgrimage, Galveston, TX. Jenny shares about what makes the Gulf Coast a sacred space for her and we invite folks into reflecting on their own sacred spaces. Going on your own pilgrimage soon and unsure of where to start? Here’s some gentle suggestions based on what helps Jenny get in the flow:
Sacred places, spaces and tunes we mentioned this episode (or meant to anyways):
03:18 Nature as a Pilgrimage 05:42 The Discomfort of Pilgrimage 10:14 Finding Beauty in the Journey 12:15 Listening to Our Wants and Needs 14:47 The Importance of Disruption 16:54 Reflection and Integration 18:36 Preparing for a Pilgrimage 22:32 Surprises and Lessons Learned 24:34 Defining Personal Perfection 27:40 The Healing Power of Place 29:50 Reconnecting with Our Draw 31:57 Practical Tips for Reflection 35:12 Closing Thoughts and Poetry | |||
| Jarod K. Anderson is the Cryptonaturalist | 29 Oct 2025 | 00:55:47 | |
Jarod K. Anderson, poet, thinker, author, and host of the podcast Cryptonaturalist joins us this week! Jarod chats with us about nature being his church from a very young age, the beauty and invitational nature of moss, writing poetry as a way of making sense of the world, and more. This conversation is not only a breath of fresh air but an invitation back to the forests that make our very breath possible. We are so excited to share with you Jarod’s lovely poems, the ways that nature can be a balm for depression and the weariness of the world, and all the wisdom shared in this gentle, thoughtful conversation. Cool stuff we mention in this week’s episode (or meant to anyways):
Chapters 00:00 The Beauty of Nature and Poetry 02:58 The Journey of a Poet 05:48 The Role of Poetry in Mental Health 08:56 Influences and Inspirations in Writing 11:35 Finding Peace in Nature 14:35 The Importance of Presence in Nature 17:07 Unexpected Encounters in Nature 18:10 The Philosophy of Mushroom Hunting 21:02 Nature as a Teacher 23:39 Reciprocity Between Nature and Self 26:56 Reconnecting with Nature 30:40 The Magic of Trees and Moss 34:07 Finding Thin Spaces 41:11 The Nature of Love 43:16 Vulnerability and Healing 51:16 Creative Projects and Future Endeavors | |||
| Pilgrimage to self, and each other, with Kelly and Jess | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:54:41 | |
Krista Tippet says “learning to love is the longest pilgrimage of our lives.” We are thrilled to welcome Kelly Slaven and Jessica Brazzeal of The Haven Wellness Center to share with us about their pilgrimage of love. Kelly and Jess share with us about coming out, finding love with one another, and building a life that feels authentic and true to them, together. We love a good love story at Radical Sacred and Jess and Kelly's is one we can’t wait for you to hear! It can be scary to allow your life to unfold in new ways and we are grateful to Kelly and Jess for sharing their journey with us. We start this episode off with the gorgeous poem The Invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer. Chapters00:00 The Invitation to Presence and Awareness 02:47 Exploring the Concept of Pilgrimage 05:52 Navigating Identity and Relationships 09:05 Choosing Authenticity Over Comfort 12:08 The Role of Community in Personal Journeys 14:49 Finding Guides and Role Models 18:00 Spiritual Growth and Transformation 21:00 Creating Safe Spaces for Healing 23:50 The Journey of Self-Acceptance 27:14 Reflections on Parenting and Growth 30:04 The Joy of Connection and Shared Experiences 32:55 The Importance of Vulnerability in Relationships 35:48 Building a Practice Based on Values 38:51 The Power of Music and Art in Healing 42:06 Embracing Change and New Beginnings 44:46 The Journey Continues: Looking Ahead | |||
| Pilgrimage with Karen Couch - It's Your Camino | 25 Sep 2024 | 00:48:46 | |
Phil and Jenny are thrilled today to speak with Karen Couch about the pilgrimage of walking the Camino de Santiago! Karen is an outdoor enthusiast, Enneagram 6, and co-founder of Elevate Outdoor Adventures. Karen talks to us today about her passion for encouraging women in the outdoors and her experiences of being a pilgrim on the Camino de Santiago. Karen’s love for nature is rooted in her upbringing and her excitement and love for the journey is infectious. Here’s the cool stuff we mentioned today (or meant to anyways):
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Pilgrimage and Friendship 02:57 Karen's Journey and Connection to Nature 06:05 Empowering Women in the Outdoors 08:54 Defining Pilgrimage: A Personal Journey 11:58 The Camino Experience: Expectations vs. Reality 15:04 Building Community on the Camino 18:02 Different Routes of the Camino 20:54 Preparing for the Camino 23:58 Lessons Learned from the Camino 27:03 The Importance of Pacing and Community 30:02 Living the Lessons of the Camino in Daily Life 33:00 Final Thoughts and Reflections | |||
| The Pilgrimage of Labyrinth with Rev. Cindy Serio | 18 Sep 2024 | 00:49:54 | |
This week we have their minds blown by Rev. Cindy Serio of Mosaic Spiritual Formation Ministry! Rev. Cindy walks us through the ancient, circuitous path of labyrinths. Why we walk them, how we connect to self and others through this spiritual tool, and how we can begin to view this centuries old pathway as a womb. For as many people as there are on earth, so are there ways to walk the labyrinth. Explore the pilgrimage of labyrinths further by using the Labyrinth Locator to find a route near you! Resources Mentioned:
Chapters: 01:30 Introduction to Labyrinths and Guest Speaker 04:41 Exploring Labyrinths as Spiritual Tools 09:43 The Healing Power of Walking the Labyrinth 12:57 The Labyrinth as a Universal Language 16:57 Understanding the Difference: Labyrinth vs. Maze 24:57 Encountering the Black Madonna 26:04 Emotional Release and Reconciliation 29:48 Navigating the Labyrinth's Spiritual Tool 34:14 Preparing for a Labyrinth Walk 37:54 The Container of the Labyrinth 45:01 The Labyrinth Meets You Where You Are | |||
| Rev. Todd Seelau's Pilgrimage With and Beyond the Church | 11 Sep 2024 | 01:11:24 | |
In this week's episode we have the honor of interviewing Rev. Todd Silau about pilgrimage and his unique approach to ministry. We discuss the concept of pilgrimage and how it relates to being on the move and being a stranger in a new place. We also explore the idea of deconstructed ecclesiology and the importance of being a good guest when engaging with different communities. Todd shares his experiences of being on the road with his band and how it has shaped his understanding of pilgrimage. He emphasizes the significance of vulnerability and the role it plays in creating safe and brave spaces for meaningful conversations and generally the importance of intention, vulnerability, and creating sacred space. Sound Bites
Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background 14:27 Defining Pilgrimage and Holy Ground 20:08 Deconstructed Ecclesiology and Being a Good Guest 27:23 The Power of Vulnerability in Ministry 30:57Companions on the Pilgrimage Journey 38:15 Mapping the Future of the Pilgrimage 41:25 The Influence of Upbringing and Church Community 48:52 Embracing New Perspectives and Taking Risks 53:08 Learning from Unexpected Teachers and Stories 56:15 The Power of Storytelling in Pilgrimage 01:03:55 Moving Forward: Next Steps in the Pilgrimage Journey 01:11:18 The Significance of the Body in Pilgrimage 01:13:46 Discovering the Gold Within: The Journey of Life | |||
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