June 17, 2024

Episode 12: Dr. Albert Hernandez on Christian & Islamic History of Medicine 

Today Dr. Hernandez and I discuss the history of medicine & spiritual healing, the impacts of Christianity & Islam on science, and the role of healing throughout life.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can use what you’ve learned. Fear not, for we had a few ideas!

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!

If you would like to reach out to Dr. Hernandez, you can do so using the following methods:

• Email Dr. Hernandez: [email protected]

Finally, let this be your reminder to be a little nicer than necessary to all your fellow humans. Happy summer!

March 20, 2024

Episode 11: Dr. Beth Blissman on Catholic Climate Action 

Today Dr. Beth Blissman and I discuss the work of the Loretto Community in the UN, the marriage of science and spirituality, and the role of interfaith collaboration in pursuing climate justice on the international stage.

Throughout our conversation, Dr. Blissman emphasizes the interplay of action and faith within Catholicism, highlighting that if you want peace, you should act for justice. An overall eye-opening conversation, this episode promises to challenge assumptions and inspire action.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can use what you’ve learned. Fear not, for we had a few ideas!

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!

If you would like to reach out to Dr. Blissman or the Loretto Community, you can do so using the following methods:

• Visit this link to learn more about the Loretto Community: https://www.lorettocommunity.org/

Finally, let this be your reminder to be a little nicer than necessary to all your fellow humans. Happy spring!

February 28, 2024

Episode 10: Je-Shawna Wholley on Intergenerational Spiritual Healing

SUMMARY

Today Je-Shawna Wholley, founder of the groundbreaking Earthseed project, shares her insights into spiritual healing, intergenerational dialogue, and engaging with your family history, offering striking ideas for listeners to consider on how to apply these ideas to their own journey into their past.

Throughout the episode, Wholley discusses how we inherit not only trauma, but also resilience, and how we can prepare to become the best possible ancestors to our own descendants.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can use what you’ve learned. Fear not, for we had a few ideas!

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!

• Alexis Pauline Gumbs

• Visit this link to see the Earthseed project: https://sites.google.com/view/earthseedblackfamilyproject/about?authuser=0

Finally, let this be your reminder to be a little nicer than necessary to all your fellow humans. Happy Tuesday!

Today Dr. David Haberman sheds light on Indian river environmentalism, tackling water pollution issues and drawing lessons from Indian environmental activists, offering invaluable insights for listeners on how to apply these practices to their local environmental challenges.

Throughout the episode, Dr. David Haberman emphasizes that external pollution stems from internal pollution, highlighting the critical importance of cultivating a profound connection with our water bodies, suggesting that we are more inclined to protect what we love, and we love what we feel connected to.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can use what you’ve learned. Fear not, for we had a few ideas!

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!

• “The Body of God” by Sallie McFague

• Visit this link to see more of his work: https://religiousstudies.indiana.edu/about/emeriti-faculty/haberman-david.html

Finally, let this be your reminder to be a little nicer than necessary to all your fellow humans. Happy New Year!

The Sustainable Spirit Podcast

 January 15, 2024

Episode 8: Dr. David R. Loy on Eco-dharma, Eco-activism & Ecological Healing

SUMMARY

In this episode, Dr. Loy, a distinguished professor, writer, and Zen teacher in the Sanbo Zen tradition of Japanese Zen Buddhism, discusses ecodharma, a concept that intertwines Buddhism's teachings with ecological consciousness.

He begins by explaining his bold decision to return his honorary degree to Carleton College, a move inspired by his Buddhist principles and a commitment to ecological sustainability.

Ecodharma, as Loy describes, is the integration of ecological awareness into Buddhist practice, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all life. This concept is not only relevant to Buddhists but also offers a universal approach to addressing the ecological crisis. He advocates for an 'eco-awakening', urging people to recognize their intrinsic connection with nature. This awakening involves adopting Buddhist perspectives, like mindfulness, to harmonize modern life's demands with environmental stewardship.

Loy also introduces the idea of an 'eco-sangha', a community that fosters a deeper understanding of our relationship with the environment. He discusses the challenges of maintaining such a community and how they can be overcome, emphasizing the role of collective effort in ecological healing.

In discussing eco-activism, Loy advises on how individuals and communities can engage in environmental activism effectively, without succumbing to negative emotions like despair or anger. He stresses the importance of sustaining motivation and energy in the face of daunting ecological challenges.

Lastly, the concept of ecological healing is explored. Loy explains this in the context of Buddhist teachings, highlighting how individuals can engage in this healing process. He correlates ecological healing with the Buddhist concept of 'Dharma', discussing indicators of successful ecological healing at individual and community levels.

Through this discussion, Dr. Loy aims to provide listeners with practical ways to integrate these concepts into their lives, highlighting examples and strategies to inspire positive ecological change.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can use what you’ve learned. Fear not, for we had a few ideas!

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!

• Visit this link to see more of his work: https://www.davidloy.org/

Finally, let this be your reminder to be a little nicer than necessary to all your fellow humans. Happy New Year!

The Sustainable Spirit Podcast

January 1, 2024

Episode 7: Dr. S. Brent Rodriguez-Plate on Religious Objects, Building Peace & the Value of Symbols

SUMMARY

This episode of the Sustainable Spirit podcast features Dr. S.B. Rodriguez Plate, a writer, public speaker, editor, and college professor, who bases their work on the fundamental question of what it means to be human and what makes humans religious. Through their experiences and research, Plate has continually discovered that religion is about bodily experiences, not just beliefs.

In this discussion, they delve into the profound connections between religion and material objects, as explored in their book "A History of Religion in 5 ½ Objects." Here, Plate discusses how ordinary objects like stones, incense, drums, crosses, bread, and the human body attain religious significance. They explore how these objects become sacred or holy in various religions, examining the evolution and consistency of their symbolism across different cultures and times.

Plate also addresses how religious objects facilitate a deeper understanding of the divine and the core beliefs of a faith, drawing a connection between the divine glimpse offered by religious objects and how these can be tools for reconciliation and peacebuilding, especially in conflict areas.

Plate provides historical and contemporary examples of how these symbols have been used to promote peace and justice and discusses their role in interfaith understanding and dialogue. They also consider how religious objects can symbolize justice, contribute to healing communities affected by injustice, and foster social harmony.

Overall, this is fascinating discussion that promises to uncover the little-discusses material aspects of spirituality, as well as the powerful applications of these ideas toward building peace across the world.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can apply what you’ve learned. Here are some good places to start!

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!

• Visit this link to see more of their work: http://www.sbrentplate.net/

Oh, and Happy New Year! I wish you an incredible year of joy, growth & unexpected miracles. May you make peace with your past, find excitement in your future & stay grateful for your present. See you next episode!

The Sustainable Spirit Podcast

 December 4, 2023

Episode 6: Dr. Sarah Pike on Ritual, Radical Eco-Activism & Paganism

SUMMARY

Welcome back to another episode of the Sustainable Spirit Podcast! In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Sarah Pike, a distinguished professor of Comparative Religion at California State University, Chico, and an expert in ritual studies, discusses her book For the Wild: Psychological Roots of Radical Eco-Activism. Her insights offer a profound understanding of the intersection of ritual and radical eco-activism.

The episode begins with Dr. Pike exploring her inspiration to explore radical eco-activism after observing the FBI’s labelling of such activists as a major domestic terrorism threat around 2006.

She then defines 'ritual' in the context of eco-activism and suggests ways in which non-activists can adopt simple nature-based rituals to foster a connection with the environment. Dr. Pike observes that these rituals contribute to the emotional resilience of activists, providing a sense of community and commitment.

As such, she goes on to encourage listeners to harness the power of rituals to build resilience and spark change.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can apply what you’ve learned. Here are some good places to start!

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!

• Visit this link to see more of her work: https://www.tf.uio.no/english/research/projects/redo/partnere/pike.html

Finally, let this be your gentle reminder to be a little more lovely than necessary to all your fellow earth-dwellers. See you next episode!

The Sustainable Spirit Podcast

 November 20, 2023

Episode 5: Dr. Sabina Magliocco on Witchcraft, Paganism & Gender Equality

SUMMARY

This episode delves into the fascinating world of witchcraft and paganism, juxtaposing their portrayal in popular culture with their actual practice and significance. It begins by examining the accuracy of witchcraft as depicted in fairy tales like "Hansel and Gretel," and in media like "Hocus Pocus" and "Bewitched," exploring what witchcraft and magic truly entail.

The episode then shifts to discussing witchcraft as a feminist practice, emphasizing its role in folklore and empowerment. It highlights how witchcraft allows engagement with the extraordinary in everyday life, raising questions about the nature of the numinous and its accessibility to all, not just pagan practitioners. The conversation explores how folklore acts as both a historical archive and an evolving process, particularly in the context of paganism, and how it influences the evolution of gendered language within neo-paganism. The role of magic in deepening our experience of the world and transforming consciousness is also examined, along with its modern and secular applications.

Gendered language and ritual, especially in goddess spirituality, form another significant part of the discussion. The episode delves into how gendered language influences the way neo-pagan practitioners connect with the divine and express their spirituality, including the use of rituals to challenge traditional gender roles. The balance between inclusivity and tradition in neo-pagan rituals, the impact of goddess spirituality on gender and divinity, and the engagement of men in practices traditionally associated with femininity are also explored.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can use what you’ve learned. Fear not, for we had a few ideas!

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!

• Visit this link to see more of her work: https://anth.ubc.ca/profile/sabina-magliocco/

Finally, let this be your reminder to be a little more amicable than necessary to all your fellow earth-dwellers. Until next time!

The Sustainable Spirit Podcast

 November 6, 2023

Episode 4: Dr. David P. Gushee on Navigating LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Christianity

SUMMARY

In this thought-provoking episode, we engage in a compelling conversation with Dr. David Gushee, a distinguished Christian ethicist, and author of the influential book "Changing Our Mind." Dr. Gushee's insightful responses shed light on the complex intersection of LGBTQ+ issues and Christianity, highlighting the importance of empathy, and dialogue.

Dr. Gushee begins by sharing his inspiration for writing "Changing Our Mind," a book that challenges traditional Christian perspectives on LGBTQ+ rights. He delves into personal experiences that have shaped his views, emphasizing the value of lived stories in informing his arguments.

The heart of the conversation centers on the book's potential impact, particularly for those with more conservative beliefs. Dr. Gushee hopes to bridge the divide by addressing key misconceptions, including the idea that being LGBTQ+ is a choice or sinful.

The conversation delves into the battle for Christianity's soul, emphasizing the tension between LGBTQ+ rights and religious freedom. Dr. Gushee underscores the need to challenge the denial of LGBTQ+ individuals' capacity for faith and moral character, despite the unique difficulties they face in practicing their faith.

Dr. Gushee also highlights successful dialogues and initiatives that have brought diverse perspectives together and advocates for inclusive, equitable conversations that consider the intersecting identities of LGBTQ+ individuals. His wisdom and compassionate insights offer a roadmap to navigate the complex terrain of LGBTQ+ rights within the Christian faith.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can apply it to your own life, keep up to date on upcoming episodes, or check out more of Dr. Gushee’s work. Below are a few places to start:

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!

• Visit this link to see more of his work: https://www.davidpgushee.com/about/

Finally, let this be your reminder to treat others with a little more love than is needed. See you next time!

The Sustainable Spirit Podcast

 October 17, 2023

Episode 3: Dr. Mark Juergensmeyer on Ghandhian Conflict Resolution, Satyagraha & Social Justice

SUMMARY

In a thought-provoking podcast interview, Mark Juergensmeyer delves into the profound world of Gandhian conflict resolution and its application to democracy and social justice. He begins by discussing his inspiration for writing a book on Gandhi and nonviolence, highlighting his fascination with Gandhi's unique approach to conflict resolution. Juergensmeyer masterfully elucidates Gandhi's philosophy of satyagraha, or "truth force," making it accessible to those unfamiliar with the concept.

The conversation then shifts to the root causes of conflicts, emphasizing how differing "angles of vision" often underlie societal discord. Juergensmeyer chronicles Gandhi's evolution in developing this nonviolent approach and the various influences that shaped his thinking. He outlines the specific tactics and strategies employed by Gandhi to foster nonviolent change, exploring their effectiveness in the face of violence and oppression.

Throughout the discussion, the podcast explores nonviolent alternatives to achieving goals, even in contexts as varied as business ethics. Juergensmeyer carefully distinguishes Gandhi's approach from confrontational or aggressive movements, addressing criticisms that nonviolence can be unrealistic or ineffective in extreme situations.

The relationship between nonviolence and democracy takes center stage as the conversation unfolds, shedding light on how nonviolent movements can promote democratic values and institutions. The concept of self-sacrifice for a greater cause is also examined, with an exploration of whether it's always a requisite for successful nonviolent conflict resolution.

The interview concludes by exploring what readers can glean from Juergensmeyer's book and how they can apply Gandhi's principles of nonviolence to their own lives and communities, offering valuable insights into creating a more just and peaceful world. Mark Juergensmeyer's expertise in Gandhian conflict resolution shines through in this enlightening conversation, making it clear that Gandhi's legacy is as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.

Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery and learn how Gandhi’s teachings on satyagraha, truth force, and non-violence can inspire us to build peace within our societies.

CALL TO ACTION, EPISODE LINK & CONTACT INFO

Once you have listened to this episode, you might be wondering how you can use what you’ve learned. Fear not, for we had a few ideas!

• Share this podcast with a friend (or an enemy)!

• Visit this link to see more of his work: http://juergensmeyer.org/

Finally, let this be your reminder to be a little nicer than necessary to all your fellow humans. Until next time!