Peace on The Doorstep

In this episode of Peace on the Doorstep, I’m diving into something that’s been stirring in my prayer life for a while: church reimagination. I share why I believe Jesus wouldn’t have picked just one church to belong to—and why that’s actually really good news. We’ll talk about unity, the beauty (and blind spots) of different denominations, and how the Enneagram helps us understand the many ways we each reflect a piece of Christ. This one’s about honoring the whole Body, learning from one another, and letting go of the idea that any one tradition has it all figured out.Subscribe for more at thedoorstep.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedoorstep.substack.com

In this episode of Peace on the Doorstep, I share how I’ve been rethinking my relationship with social media—not as a performance space, but as a place for personal joy and creative authenticity. I talk about what it means to “post for delight” and how reclaiming my attention and setting boundaries online has brought an unexpected sense of peace. Instead of chasing likes or getting pulled into arguments with strangers, I’m learning to curate my digital spaces with the same care I bring to my home—sharing what I love, not just what I think will be approved. This episode is about reclaiming your voice, restoring your energy, and choosing presence over performance.

If this resonates with you, make sure to subscribe here so you never miss an episode—and get more reflections like this delivered straight to your inbox.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedoorstep.substack.com

Peace on the Doorstep has moved to Substack.I’ve been writing short essays there — reflections on faith, community, and the slow work of spiritual growth. Every so often, I’ll gather a few and share them here in audio form. This episode is one of those compilations.

If you'd like to read these pieces as they’re published, or have them delivered to your inbox, you can subscribe at thedoorstep.substack.com

This month we explore:

The Art of Staying Put: Finding Stamina in Church, Faith and Life

Why staying with imperfect leaders and diverse communities might be the spiritual challenge - and blessing - we all need.

14:17 You Can’t Keep Your Clothes Clean

Why God waits until we’re truly changed before moving us forward.

24:50 From “I” to “We”

Dismantling the illusion of personal fulfillment in a culture obsessed with individualism.

33:25 Arms Outstretched Through Time

Christ’s sacrifice beyond history - alive in every moment

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedoorstep.substack.com

In this episode of Peace on the Doorstep, I reflect on the journey of creating a new daily rhythm amidst the liminal space of self-employment. Drawing inspiration from monastic life, I explore how routine, silence, and intentionality can restore peace to a chaotic and unstructured life. Join me as I share how I’ve crafted a practice that nurtures my soul, blends work and offering, and fosters contentment in the present moment—without striving or distraction.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedoorstep.substack.com

In this 2-part episode of Peace on the Doorstep, Sarah Polk reviews Richard Rohr's book, Everything Belongs. She explores themes of contemplation, ego, humility, prayer, free will, and the nature of forgiveness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of trusting oneself and embracing transformation while navigating the complexities of faith and identity. Sarah reflects on the role of the prophet in society and the need for a third way in addressing societal issues, ultimately concluding with a call for reconciliation and understanding in a divided world.

Takeaways

* Contemplation must always take priority over action.

* The struggle with identity can lead to apathy.

* Prayer serves as a focusing apparatus for understanding.

* Free will is essential for personal responsibility.

* The holy fool embraces uncertainty and lack of knowledge.

* Trusting ourselves is crucial for spiritual growth.

* Forgiveness is given before it is earned.

* Surrendering to the flow of life leads to peace.

* Transformation requires letting go of old beliefs.

* The prophet's role is to combine the best of both sides.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to the Podcast and Book Review

00:56Ego and Soul: The Importance of Contemplation

03:17The Struggle with Identity and Humility

05:40Prayer as a Focusing Apparatus

08:27The Concept of Free Will and Personal Responsibility

10:50The Holy Fool: Embracing Uncertainty

12:42Trusting Ourselves and God's Love

13:37Forgiveness and the Nature of Meritocracy

14:32Surrendering to the Flow of Life

15:30Return to the Sacred: Embracing Transformation

17:48Finding the Third Way in Faith

19:09The Role of the Prophet in Society

20:37Conclusion and Reflection on the Book

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedoorstep.substack.com

In this episode of Peace on the Doorstep, Sarah Carling Polk delves into Richard Rohr's book 'Everything Belongs,' exploring themes of contemplation, identity, and the nature of prayer. The conversation highlights the challenges of reaching the center of ourselves amidst societal dualism, the evolution of prayer towards simplicity, and the importance of embracing a beginner's mind. Polk reflects on her personal journey through liminal spaces and the significance of living in the present moment, emphasizing the need for love and understanding in a fragmented world.

* Contemplation requires embracing silence and solitude.

* Religion can create obstacles in our relationship with God.

* Many gravitate towards extreme expressions of faith.

* Living ourselves into new ways of thinking is essential.

* Spiritual disciplines help us be truly present.

* A beginner's mind is crucial for understanding faith.

* Liminal spaces can lead to transformation.

* True power lies in vulnerability and descent.

* Each moment should be held in reverence.

* We are all broken and united by grace.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Contemplation and Richard Rohr

01:28 Exploring the Center and Circumference of Faith

06:38 The Struggle with Identity and Community

07:53 Evolving Understanding of Prayer

12:34 Cultivating a Beginner's Mind

15:15 Navigating Liminal Spaces and Transformation

17:08 Living in the Now: Ego and Soul

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedoorstep.substack.com

Send us a text

In the Season 2 premiere of Peace on the Doorstep, we’re diving deep into the transformative world of contemplative Christianity. This episode explores the profound practice of Lectio Divina, a meditative way of engaging with Scripture that prioritizes reflection and personal connection with God. I share my personal journey with Psalm 46 — how it resonated in unexpected ways despite my struggles with aphantasia — and what it taught me about finding refuge in chaos.

We’ll unpack the mystical traditions of Christianity, from the quiet power of silence and solitude to the complexities of non-dual thinking that challenge black-and-white views of faith. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the noise of the world or curious about finding God beyond doctrine and debate, this episode offers a reflective space to pause, listen, and simply be.

Tune in to hear why sometimes the most profound spiritual growth happens when we let go of control, embrace the mystery, and allow ourselves to be still.

#ContemplativeChristianity #LectioDivina #Mysticism #FaithJourney #NonDualThinking #Psalm46

Support the show

Peace on the Doorstep is a subscription-free zone —because let’s be real, we're all overwhelmed by subscriptions that often don't deliver value. Instead, this podcast is supported by ads. If you'd like to support it with your hard-earned money, check out the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes or visit buymeacoffee.com/peaceonthedoorstep.

Occasionally, I might promote a relevant product or create something for purchase, but it'll be at a fixed price—no subscription traps here.

Yes, there will be some swearing. I start each episode with “b******t” as a heads-up, and I might swear in person or even during prayers. This podcast reflects the real me.

I’m still exploring my faith, and my questions stem from curiosity. I gather insights from various sources—books, articles, podcasts, conversations with priests, and tech tools. I don’t claim to have all the answers, and I encourage you to seek your own truth. I embrace technology to enhance this process because I’m a tech nerd at heart!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedoorstep.substack.com

Send us a text

Social media doesn’t just shape what we buy—it shapes how we think. In this episode of Peace on the Doorstep, Sarah dives into the concept of deinfluencing—not just resisting consumerism but reclaiming our thoughts from external pressures. From personal stories about Reddit forums to biblical wisdom on avoiding envy, this episode explores how comparison culture impacts mental health, relationships, and contentment. Join us for practical tips, thought-provoking research, and spiritual insights to help you rediscover peace in your life.

Peace on the Doorstep is made possible by GEM Advisors, the business I founded to help small and owner-operated companies grow. At GEM Advisors, we focus on attracting new customers, engaging your audience, and streamlining operations so you can spend more time doing what you love.

To learn more about GEM Advisors and book your free 30-minute consultation, visit gemadvisors.net. Together, we can make a difference.

Support the show

Peace on the Doorstep is a subscription-free zone —because let’s be real, we're all overwhelmed by subscriptions that often don't deliver value. Instead, this podcast is supported by ads. If you'd like to support it with your hard-earned money, check out the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes or visit buymeacoffee.com/peaceonthedoorstep.

Occasionally, I might promote a relevant product or create something for purchase, but it'll be at a fixed price—no subscription traps here.

Yes, there will be some swearing. I start each episode with “b******t” as a heads-up, and I might swear in person or even during prayers. This podcast reflects the real me.

I’m still exploring my faith, and my questions stem from curiosity. I gather insights from various sources—books, articles, podcasts, conversations with priests, and tech tools. I don’t claim to have all the answers, and I encourage you to seek your own truth. I embrace technology to enhance this process because I’m a tech nerd at heart!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedoorstep.substack.com

Send us a text

Christmas hasn’t always been about cozy gatherings and festive cheer—it’s a holiday steeped in fascinating folklore and mysterious traditions from around the world. In this episode of Peace on the Doorstep, Sarah Polk takes you on a journey through the strange, magical, and sometimes spooky beliefs that have shaped the season over centuries.

Discover the eerie origins of the Yule Goat and the Icelandic Yule Cat, a feline with a fearsome appetite for those without new clothes. Uncover the whimsical tradition of Catalonia’s Tió de Nadal, a gift-pooping log, and the supernatural Twelve Days of Wild Spirits from Nordic lore. From Wales’ Mari Lwyd, a spectral horse skull bringing luck, to Victorian ghost stories, Sarah explores the surprising ways cultures have celebrated the darker side of Christmas.

This episode also highlights legendary figures like Krampus, La Befana the Christmas witch, and talking animals on Christmas Eve, showing how magic, mischief, and mystery have always been part of the holiday spirit.

Dive into this enchanting episode to uncover the rich tapestry of global traditions that make Christmas much more than just Santa and stockings. Perfect for history lovers, folklore fans, and anyone curious about the season's magical roots.

Peace on the Doorstep is made possible by GEM Advisors, the business I founded to help small and owner-operated companies grow. At GEM Advisors, we focus on attracting new customers, engaging your audience, and streamlining operations so you can spend more time doing what you love.

To learn more about GEM Advisors and book your free 30-minute consultation, visit gemadvisors.net. Together, we can make a difference.

Support the show

Peace on the Doorstep is a subscription-free zone —because let’s be real, we're all overwhelmed by subscriptions that often don't deliver value. Instead, this podcast is supported by ads. If you'd like to support it with your hard-earned money, check out the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes or visit buymeacoffee.com/peaceonthedoorstep.

Occasionally, I might promote a relevant product or create something for purchase, but it'll be at a fixed price—no subscription traps here.

Yes, there will be some swearing. I start each episode with “b******t” as a heads-up, and I might swear in person or even during prayers. This podcast reflects the real me.

I’m still exploring my faith, and my questions stem from curiosity. I gather insights from various sources—books, articles, podcasts, conversations with priests, and tech tools. I don’t claim to have all the answers, and I encourage you to seek your own truth. I embrace technology to enhance this process because I’m a tech nerd at heart!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedoorstep.substack.com

Send us a text

Stepping into a church for the first time can be daunting, but Christmas is the perfect season to start. In this episode of Peace on the Doorstep, Sarah Polk breaks down everything you need to know about visiting a church for the first time, with a special focus on the warmth and joy of Christmas services.

Learn the differences between liturgical and non-liturgical worship styles, how denominations like Catholics, Episcopalians, and Baptists celebrate, and what to expect at popular services like Christmas Eve candlelight gatherings or peaceful Christmas Day reflections. Sarah shares practical tips for choosing the right church, navigating traditions like communion, and embracing the experience at your own pace.

Whether you’re curious about traditional rituals or seeking a modern, community-driven vibe, this episode offers a thoughtful and welcoming guide to help you find the perfect church. Plus, discover how to approach churches based on your beliefs and comfort, from reaching out beforehand to simply showing up as you are.

Make your first church visit meaningful and stress-free this Christmas season. Tune in to explore a faith-filled journey, where every visitor is welcomed with grace and joy. Subscribe now for more insights on finding your spiritual home.

Peace on the Doorstep is made possible by GEM Advisors, the business I founded to help small and owner-operated companies grow. At GEM Advisors, we focus on attracting new customers, engaging your audience, and streamlining operations so you can spend more time doing what you love.

To learn more about GEM Advisors and book your free 30-minute consultation, visit gemadvisors.net. Together, we can make a difference.

Support the show

Peace on the Doorstep is a subscription-free zone —because let’s be real, we're all overwhelmed by subscriptions that often don't deliver value. Instead, this podcast is supported by ads. If you'd like to support it with your hard-earned money, check out the Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes or visit buymeacoffee.com/peaceonthedoorstep.

Occasionally, I might promote a relevant product or create something for purchase, but it'll be at a fixed price—no subscription traps here.

Yes, there will be some swearing. I start each episode with “b******t” as a heads-up, and I might swear in person or even during prayers. This podcast reflects the real me.

I’m still exploring my faith, and my questions stem from curiosity. I gather insights from various sources—books, articles, podcasts, conversations with priests, and tech tools. I don’t claim to have all the answers, and I encourage you to seek your own truth. I embrace technology to enhance this process because I’m a tech nerd at heart!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedoorstep.substack.com