In this reflection episode, Elizabeth steps back from interviews to ask: what’s really staying with me from these conversations?
We explore themes of gender, division, fear, and the deep longing for connection in a time when everything can feel like it’s falling apart - politically, socially and spiritually.
We talk about:
Why gender is so hard to talk about without blame
The “polycrisis” and our collective fight-or-flight
How contempt sneaks in and empathy fades
Whether old spiritual traditions still have anything to offer
And what it takes to stay human (and stay open) in a polarised world
🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
🌿 Take a break with us in August. Take time to be with your people and "unplug" yourself from the online world. We'll see you in September.
What happens when standing by your principles means losing your community?
David French was once a Republican darling - a military veteran in Iraq, a pro-life lawyer, and a defender of religious liberty. But when he publicly opposed Donald Trump in 2016, everything changed. His church turned on him, his family received threats, and he became controversial figure in political and religious debates.
In this conversation, David reflects on the cost of choosing virtue over political loyalty, why free speech still matters even when it's painful, and what it’s like to be exiled by your tribe.
We talk about moral courage, the state of American evangelicalism, and what it means to stay principled in a world that rewards tribalism.
🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
✍️ Follow David French: https://x.com/davidafrench?lang=en
Chapters
00:00 Intro
01:07 What is Sacred to you? David French answers
01:29 Defining Virtue in American Society
06:26 When Have Your Virtues Been Tested?
14:42 Formative Experiences and Moral Foundations
18:40 Political Awakening and Conservative Values
27:27 The Role of Civil Liberties in Society
30:47 The Importance of Defending Difficult Speech
33:31 The Importance of Free Speech
36:39 Serving in the Iraq war
39:52 Transformative Experiences of War
44:10 Political Identity and Church Community Rejection
50:49 The Impact of Community Rejection
54:52 Staying True to Principles Over Tribes
Keywords:
David French - veteran, constitutional lawyer, political commentator, and lifelong conservative - joins The Sacred to talk about the cost of staying true to his values. In this episode, he shares how refusing to support Donald Trump led to being “cancelled” by his church, receiving threats, and becoming a controversial figure in conservative Christian circles. We explore free speech, religious freedom, evangelical politics, cancel culture, moral courage, integrity, and the crisis of virtue in public life. David speaks about his military service in Iraq, his time defending civil liberties, and why he believes principles should come before political parties. This conversation is for anyone wrestling with faith and politics, Christian identity, the culture wars, the evangelical church, or what it means to live with integrity in polarised times. Topics include: Christian conservatism, Never Trump, leaving church, freedom of speech, spiritual exile, republican, political pressure, and how to remain faithful under fire.
After three incredible years, we're saying goodbye to our producer, Daniel Turner. We sat down with him to reflect on his journey, asking what's making young men conservative?In this special episode of The Sacred, we debrief on what it's like to work on the podcast, explore how leadership failures challenged his faith, talk about masculinity, abortion and the influence of figures like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson on young men. We discuss generational divides in politics, and reflect on the guests who’ve shaped him most.
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🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
✍️ Follow Daniel Turner's writing: https://etcet.substack.com/
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
1:19 What is Sacred to you? Daniel Turner answers
2:23 Fighting to remain curious
3:33 Growing up in a religious community
6:28 Why did you leave the community?
9:32 Moral failures within the church
10:30 Difficulty reengaging with church
12:10 Is there a "quiet revival" in church?
15:15 Getting married and having children young
20:36 Parenthood and purpose
22:58 The "manosphere" and masculinity
27:13 Thoughts on Jordan Peterson
28:28 Curiosity towards Andrew Tate
32:00 Choosing Sacred guests
34:00 Gen Z: apathy, escapism and polarisation
37:29 The Pro-Life Perspective: Community and Support
45:29 Final reflections on Three Years with The Sacred
Key Topics:
Faith crisis, church trauma, spiritual deconstruction, young Christian experience, masculinity crisis, religious leadership failure, pro-life perspectives, community healing, millennial faith journey, generational spiritual shifts, Catholic charismatic renewal, intellectual curiosity in faith, overcoming church hurt, Jordan Peterson influence, Gen Z spirituality, early marriage and faith, parenting and religious identity, radical forgiveness, navigating religious doubt, Christian masculinity, spiritual resilience, church culture critique, personal transformation, faith and family dynamics, religious community challenges, healing from spiritual abuse, authentic Christian experience, interfaith dialogue, moral complexity in faith, young men's spiritual journey, church leadership accountability, reconciliation after trauma, spiritual questioning, community support systems, religious identity exploration, emotional intelligence in faith, radical listening, intergenerational spiritual conversations, Christian identity reconstruction, spiritual mentorship, faith and cultural shifts, personal testimony, religious freedom, spiritual growth, church trauma recovery, authentic belief, millennial religious experience, spiritual resilience, faith-based personal development, sacred conversations.
In this bonus episode, Elizabeth Oldfield and Christine Emba dive deep into the heart of what it means to live a good life in turbulent times.
Recorded in Washington, DC, this intimate discussion explores vulnerability, community, and finding hope when the world feels overwhelming.
🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
✍️ Follow Christine: https://x.com/christineemba?lang=en
Keywords:
community, resilience, purpose, vulnerability, moral courage, spirituality, friendship, authenticity, connection, meaning, hope, personal growth, wisdom, integrity, social infrastructure, interdependence, faith, trust, compassion, transformation, belonging, self-discovery, empathy, community building, personal values, spiritual strength, emotional intelligence, social connection, mindfulness, resilience, personal development, human connection, inner growth, social awareness, emotional resilience, personal transformation, spiritual journey, community support, self-reflection, moral compass, human potential, personal evolution, social bonds, emotional depth, spiritual practice, personal integrity, community engagement, inner strength, vulnerability, meaningful living
Fariha Róisín is a poet, Muslim, and survivor of extreme childhood trauma. In this raw, soul-baring conversation, they speak about the long road from abuse to healing - via Islam, queerness, Ayahuasca, and a radical reimagining of wellness.
This is not your typical conversation about wellness, it's about what healing really takes and why the current wellness industry often gets it so wrong.
🎧 In this episode:
- What Western wellness won’t tell you about trauma
- How Islam became a radical site of healing and resistance
- Reclaiming the body, queerness, and spiritual power
- The deeper spiritual technologies beyond capitalism
⚠️ Trigger warning: This episode includes discussion of child sexual abuse and self harm.
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🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
✍️ Follow Fariha: https://www.instagram.com/fariha_roisin/?hl=en
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:21 What is Sacred to you? Fariha Answers
04:51 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact
08:54 Islam and Personal Identity
15:26 Queerness and Faith
20:50 The Intersection of Wellness and Spirituality
29:10 Rituals and Agency in Modern Life
32:45 Discerning Wellness: A Critical Perspective
36:08 The Role of Spirituality and Healing Modalities
40:12 Ayahuasca: A Transformative Experience
50:07 Reflections on Faith and Historical Contexts
Keywords:
Transformative journey of healing, spirituality, and resistance: Ayahuasca, spiritual healing, trauma recovery, decolonization, decolonisation, Muslim spirituality, queer faith, wellness revolution, intergenerational trauma, plant medicine, indigenous wisdom, childhood abuse survivor, radical self-care, spiritual transformation, colonialism and healing, Islamic feminism, psychedelic therapy, ancestral healing, spiritual awakening, mental health recovery, cultural resilience, holistic wellness, trauma-informed healing, spiritual resistance, alternative medicine, intersectional spirituality, sexual abuse recovery, mindfulness practices, feminist spirituality, postcolonial healing, spiritual empowerment, trauma therapy, queer spirituality, indigenous medicine, wellness culture, spiritual journey, healing from abuse, cultural trauma, spiritual liberation, body-mind healing, radical wellness, spiritual resilience, trauma centred care, cultural identity, spiritual practices, healing rituals, emotional recovery, spiritual guidance, transformative healing, cultural empowerment, spiritual connection, trauma integration, holistic healing, spiritual awakening, cultural healing, trauma-informed spirituality, spiritual growth, healing modalities, cultural transformation, spiritual resilience, trauma recovery techniques.
We sat down with Jonathan Rauch - a gay, Jewish atheist - to explore his remarkable journey from accepting his sexuality and rejecting religion to becoming a key voice advocating for same-sex marriage and the vital role of Christianity in sustaining liberal, secular democracy.
Key topics include:
- Jonathan's personal wrestle with his sexuality and eventual acceptance
- His commitment to gay and lesbian equality and the social conservative case for same-sex marriage
- The negative effects of secularisation
- The importance of Christian values in supporting liberal democracy and the need for a Christian revival
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🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
✍️ Follow Jonathan Rauch: https://x.com/jon_rauch?lang=en
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:57 What is Sacred to you? Jonathan Rauch answers
02:48 Childhood Influences and Jewish Identity
05:58 Feeling on the outside
06:58 Trying to be religious
08:47 The Fight for Free Speech and Liberalism
11:52 The Journey to Same-Sex Marriage Advocacy
15:06 Navigating Personal and Public Identity
17:57 Understanding Anger and Tolerance in Debate
19:44 Denial and Acceptance of Same-Sex Attraction
34:28 Advocating for Christianity as an Atheist
36:14 The Consequences of Secularisation
38:19 The Role of Christianity in Democracy
40:42 Core Teachings of Christianity and Liberalism
47:21 The Need for Christianity in Secular Society
51:13 The Search for Transcendence
54:34 Messages for Secular Liberals and Christians
Keywords:
Jonathan Rauch, Liberal democracy, Christianity and politics, Gay rights, Same-sex marriage, Religious freedom, Secular society, American democracy, Political philosophy, Free speech, LGBTQ+ rights, Jewish identity, Atheism, Religious values, Social change, Political discourse, Minority rights, Cultural transformation, Civic engagement, Religious tolerance, Political liberalism, Social conservatism, Identity politics, Democratic values, Religious revival, Intellectual history, Cultural dialogue, Personal identity, Political belief, Social justice, Religious pluralism, American creed, Constitutional values, Community building, Interfaith dialogue, Political moderation, Cultural understanding, Religious institutions, Social cohesion, Intellectual freedom, Political compromise, Religious skepticism, Cultural diversity, Democratic principles, Social transformation, Religious critique, Political philosophy, Civic virtues, Cultural evolution, Intellectual honesty
Bestselling author Caitlin Moran made waves with her 2011 feminist classic How to Be a Woman. Now, she’s calling for an urgent conversation about the crisis of modern masculinity.In this special live episode of The Sacred, Elizabeth Oldfield sits down with Caitlin for a hilarious, moving, and deeply honest conversation that challenges what we think we know about men, women, gender roles, and society today.Together, they explore:✖️ The masculinity crisis and the rise of the manosphere📖 The cultural impact of 'How to Be a Woman'😡 The intense backlash Caitlin received for writing about boys and men♂️ Why men struggle with health, identity, and emotional development🔄 The differences in how society handles midlife crises in men vs women🧠 How we can move beyond stereotypes toward a healthier, more compassionate vision of masculinity🎥 Recorded at our Sacred Live eventChapters00:00 Exploring Gender: The Unasked Questions01:54 The Sacred Values: Making People Feel Better04:53 Childhood Influences: A Unique Upbringing09:51 The Journey of a Writer: From Music Journalism to Feminism18:00 The Impact of 'How to Be a Woman' and Public Perception27:01 The Responsibility of Influence: Navigating Public Opinion28:49 The Art of Persuasion in Writing30:42 Hospitality in Communication31:36 The Importance of Awareness33:13 Navigating Tone and Authenticity34:54 The Journey to the Times36:49 Exploring Feminism and Masculinity37:47 Cultural Shifts in Gender Perception39:41 Addressing the Crisis of Masculinity41:31 Feminism's Role in Men's Issues43:16 The Backlash Against Men's Conversations45:18 The Lack of Resources for Men47:09 Expanding the Conversation49:21 Finding Purpose in Modern Society50:55 The Quest for Meaning52:45 Cinematic Narratives for Boys and Heroic Archetypes56:51 The Stiff Upper Lip Mentality58:34 The Importance of VulnerabilityAudience Q+A01:02:35 Are there unique differences between men and women?01:07:21 The Interior Lives of Men01:10:58 Why are kids terrified of their interior lives?01:16:41 What is the role of men in modern society?01:23:11 Navigating anxiety and self care01:28:40 Elizabeth Oldfield's reflectionKeywordsWhy are teenage boys struggling today? What does it mean to be a man in 2025? Is masculinity in crisis, or just changing? What happened to male role models — and why are so many young men turning to figures like Andrew Tate or Jordan Peterson for guidance? How is red pill culture shaping boys' self-image? What does feminism have to say about men, and how can we raise emotionally intelligent boys in a world full of conflicting messages? Are boys being left behind in conversations about gender? What do they need that they’re not getting — from parents, schools, or culture? How is social media — especially TikTok — influencing masculinity, and what impact is it having on mental health? Why do boys struggle to express their emotions, and how can we help them develop emotional resilience? Should we parent boys differently than girls? And what can we learn from shows like Adolescence on Netflix about what it really means to grow up as a boy today?
Driven by a hunger for more, Joshua Luke Smith opens up about his journey with ADHD, addiction, and the unraveling and deconstruction of his faith. In this honest conversation, he invites us to lay down hustle culture, live poetically, and rediscover the sacred in the life we already have.Together with Elizabeth Oldfield, Joshua reflects on his childhood as a missionary kid in Pakistan, the challenges of identity and belonging, and his path toward sobriety, stillness, and spiritual depth. This is a conversation about presence, recovery, and the radical power of living poetically in a world that never stops moving.---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Joshua Luke Smith: https://www.instagram.com/joshualukesmith/?hl=en / https://www.joshualukesmith.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafB24IDAARfb0OoBIDxWdDgh2FEn4Gl0ybjetYKvrQUeP85UlcThuOY-jFwXg_aem_IUFrBFhG23YMfLvi2crXPgCHAPTERS00:00 Intro00:56 What is Sacred to you? Joshua Luke Smith answers03:12 Reflections on Childhood and Belonging05:57 Missionary Life and Its Complexities09:05 Navigating Identity and Spirituality12:12 The Legacy of Colonialism in Mission Work14:53 The Role of Community in Recovery18:04 Drugs, gluttony and ecstatic experiences 21:01 Joshua shares a poem22:24 Understanding Neurodivergence and Belonging29:52 Living Poetically34:00 Exploring Masculinity and Vulnerability40:05 The Role of Fatherhood in Healing46:01 Authenticity and Spirituality in Modern Times49:07 This is the Main Event: Embracing the PresentKEYWORDSsacred, friendship, belonging, missionary, identity, spirituality, colonialism, community, recovery, neurodivergence, poetry, poetry, masculinity, gender, vulnerability, fatherhood, spirituality, authenticity, healing, community, witness, belonging, Spirituality, belonging, masculinity, faith, missionary, ADHD, recovery, addiction, fatherhood, authenticity, identity, chaos, social media, polarisation, slow living, creativity, healing, vulnerability, transformation, purpose, Christian, Jesus, Creative, Addiction, present, writing, healing, meaning, storytelling, community, wounds, redemption, childhood, Pakistan, deconstruction, Christianity, trauma, self-discovery, mental health, inspiration, resilience, mindfulness, empowerment, relationships, spiritual journey, personal growth, emotional intelligence, art, performance, writing, spoken word, meditation, self-acceptance, overcoming, compassion, introspection, wisdom, courage, transformation, hope, T.S. Eliot, Raymond Carver, Tracy Chapman, Wendell Berry, St. Francis, Eugene Peterson, David White, The Fugees#podcast #poet
Elizabeth Oldfield and author Lamorna Ash and take us on an unexpected journey through faith, doubt, and contemporary spirituality. Fresh from writing her groundbreaking book "Don't Forget We're Here Forever", Lamorna shares her search for meaning, her remarkable immersion in Christianity and her exploration of the surprising ways young people are rediscovering religion.---
🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Lamorna Ash: https://www.instagram.com/lamornaaash/?hl=en-gb
CHAPTERS00:00 Intro00:48 What is Sacred to you? Lamorna Ash answers05:51 Childhood Influences and Imagination09:01 Navigating Adolescence and Anxiety12:00 The Journey into Writing14:58 Anthropology and Storytelling17:50 Community Values in Fishing21:11 The Process of Writing and Vulnerability23:48 Exploring Faith and Conversion26:56 The Intersection of Writing and Spirituality31:03 Encountering Christianity34:50 The Journey of Understanding Faith39:55 Community and Ritual in Spirituality44:33 The Role of Prayer and Longing49:53 Christian revival?55:01 Navigating Personal and Public Faith01:01:33 The Challenge of Representation in Writing
KEYWORDSfaith, doubt, spirituality, meaning, purpose, storytelling, resilience, grief, healing, community, identity, culture, tradition, sacred, secular, introspection, transformation, journey, vulnerability, soul, renewal, belonging, connection, roots, heritage, modern life, inner life, existential, questions, personal growth, belief systems, hope, contemplation, reflection, truth, narrative, spiritual journey, emotional depth, cultural revival, human experience, wonder, curiosity, loss, solitude, silence, self-discovery, poetic, mindfulness, UK culture, literature, place, mystery, Christianity, religion, faith, revival, spiritual, God, theology, belief, resurrection, church, tradition, scripture, sacred, prayer, gospel, Jesus, Bible, hope, redemption, eternity, truth, meaning, purpose, culture, heritage, identity, community, soul, love, grace, sin, forgiveness, modernity, ritual, sacredness, divine, transcendence, reawakening, pilgrimage, devotion, miracles, liturgy, contemplation, mysticism, revelation, morality, salvation, silence, spirit, orthodoxy, renewal, spirituality, literature, UK culture, revolution, cultural revival.#podcast
Elizabeth Oldfield reflects on our latest episodes — and how the mood of our audience is changing in a world of wars, elections, and rising turbulence. She offers a powerful reminder: by choosing to listen, and stepping outside our algorithmic echo chambers, we can resist the forces driving us apart.
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🎟️ Book your ticket for the SACRED LIVE: https://linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
CHAPTERS
00:00:00 Intro
00:02:54 The Challenge of Listening to Different Voices
00:08:00 Our Audience is Finding Listening Harder Lately
00:06:07 Navigating Discomfort
00:08:58 Finding Common Ground in Complexity
KEYWORDS
Curiosity, dialogue, empathy, Trump, Biden, polarisation, algorithmic bubbles, social media, Brexit, diversity, open-mindedness, Middle East conflict, radicalisation, US politics, tolerance, perspective-taking, nuanced discourse, cultural complexity, listening skills, humanity, echo chambers, filter bubbles, political division, global understanding, compassionate communication, Westminster, Silicon Valley, algorithmic bias, cultural differences, world values, media manipulation, democratic discourse, international relations, generational perspectives, technological impact, societal connection, intellectual humility, cross-cultural dialogue, political spectrum, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, media literacy, global citizenship, personal growth, challenging assumptions, respectful disagreement, cultural empathy, systemic understanding, power dynamics, human connection.
How do we recognise the humanity on both sides of the Israel-Gaza conflict? Elizabeth Oldfield asks CNN's former Jerusalem Bureau Chief, Richard Allen Greene about journalism, his Jewish faith, and human understanding in the midst of the Israel-Gaza conflict.Key Moments:- Inside the CNN Jerusalem Bureau during October 7th- The challenge of reporting on the Israel-Gaza war- Navigating personal trauma and professional objectivity- The Jewish concept of holiness and human connection- Resisting extremism through empathy and understanding
---🎟️ Book your ticket for the SACRED LIVE: https://linktr.ee/sacredpodcast🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Richard Allen Greene: https://x.com/RAGreeneCNNCHAPTERS00:00 Intro 01:06 What is Sacred to you? Richard Allen Greene answers06:45 Childhood Influences and "Tikkun Olam"08:15 Family Background and Jewish Identity09:50 Assimilation and Cultural Identity12:05 The Nature of God and Divine Presence17:04 The Role of Journalism in Society21:08 Objectivity and the Challenges of Journalism28:48 Transitioning from Journalism to Rabbinic School30:03 The Role of a Bureau Chief in Crisis32:24 Navigating Personal Connections in Reporting35:01 Finding Meaning in Senseless Suffering37:23 The Impact of the war on Jewish Communities41:23 Antisemitism and Its Complexities43:50 What is Antisemitism?46:44 Holding Multiple Truths in Conflict49:07 The Importance of Diverse Perspectives53:03 Reflections on Humanity and JournalismKEYWORDSHumanity, Conflict, Sacred, Holy, Values, Tikkun Olam, Identity, Spirituality, God, Journalism, Objectivity, Rabbinical Studies, Media Ethics, Israeli Palestinian, Antisemitism, Community, Meaning, Perspective, Crisis Reporting, Connection, Trauma, Healing, Interfaith, Culture, Resilience, Compassion, Global Politics, Mental Health, War Reporting, Social Justice, Human Rights, Empathy, Reconciliation, Communication, Moral Courage, Hope, Understanding, Tolerance, Transformation, Storytelling, Wisdom, Peacebuilding, Critical Thinking, Experience, Growth, Leadership, Dialogue, Diversity, Humanity, Suffering, Survival#IsraelGaza #Journalism #Humanity #Empathy
Elizabeth spoke to Olympic legend Kriss Akabusi reveals the extraordinary journey from a challenging childhood foster care during the Nigerian civil war, to becoming a world-class athlete and inspirational figure.
We spoke about:
💪 How discipline and sports became his pathway to self-discovery
🇳🇬 Reconnecting with his Nigerian roots and identity after years of rejecting it
🎙️ His spiritual awakening and complex relationship with faith
---
🎟️ Book your ticket for the SACRED LIVE: https://linktr.ee/sacr...
🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
✍️ Follow Kriss Akabusi: https://www.instagram....
CHAPTERS
00:00:00 Come to The Sacred Live!
00:00:32 Intro
00:01:32 What is Sacred to you? Kriss Akabusi answers
00:03:02 Childhood Influences
00:05:46 Family Background and Nigerian Heritage
00:09:40 Experiences in Children's Home and Care System
00:12:48 Turning Point: A Moment of Realisation
00:17:04 Reunion with Mother and Cultural Disconnection
00:22:14 Understanding Parental Sacrifices and Forgiveness
00:23:02 Transition to Adulthood and Name Change
00:25:32 Life in the Army and Discovering Athletic Talent
00:27:55 Finding Purpose Through Sport
00:29:04 The 1991 Relay Race: A Game-Changing Strategy
00:34:38 The Spirituality of Sport
00:41:19 Evolving Spirituality: A Personal Journey
00:47:23 Embracing Heritage and Identity
00:50:11 The Gift of Life Awareness
Keywords:
Kriss, Akabusi, Olympic, Champion, Resilience, Foster, Care, Sports, Motivation, Inspiration, Athlete, Success, Overcoming, Adversity, Personal, Growth, Nigerian, Heritage, Spirituality, Faith, Transformation, Life, Journey, Childhood, Trauma, Mental, Strength, Determination, Achievement, Empowerment, Diversity, Inclusion, Multicultural, Identity, Purpose, Mindset, Coaching, Mentorship, Leadership, Autobiography, Memoir, Triumph, Challenges, Breakthrough, Courage, Discipline, Self-Improvement, Motivation, Storytelling, Empathy, Racism, Survival, Resilience, Immigrant, Experience, Mentality, Willpower, Breakthrough, Potential, Mindfulness, Healing, Transformation, Empowerment, Ancestry, Cultural, Legacy, Perseverance, Vulnerability, Authenticity, Wisdom, Redemption
#podcast #KrissAkabusi #Resilience #OlympicChampion #personalgrowth
Matthew Elliott joins Elizabeth Oldfield in his first interview since Brexit to talk about how he became the man behind the Brexit campaign and now a champion of social mobility through business. Elliott shares insights into his family's influence, his political awakening, and the principles that have guided his controversial yet impactful career. He offers a candid look inside the Brexit referendum, explaining the complex motivations that drove the Leave campaign and reflecting on the societal divisions it created.
🎟️ Book your ticket for the SACRED LIVE: https://linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
✍️ Follow Matthew Elliott: https://x.com/matthew_elliott
CHAPTERS
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:30 What is Sacred to you? Matthew Elliott Answers
00:02:54 Core Values and Life Mission
00:06:09 Political Perspectives and Pragmatism
00:08:54 Childhood Influences and Political Awakening
00:12:01 The Role of Education in Shaping Beliefs
00:14:54 The Intersection of Personality and Politics
00:18:09 Classical Liberalism and Social Responsibility
00:21:06 Government vs. Corporate Surveillance
00:24:01 The Role of Business in Society
00:26:06 Business and Social Responsibility
00:29:38 Brexit: A Journey of Skepticism and Change
00:36:14 The Role of Business in Society
00:43:43 Navigating Public Life and Backlash
Keywords: Brexit, politics, personal values, data privacy, classical liberalism, social responsibility, corporate ethics, government surveillance, community, public policy, business, social responsibility, Brexit, polarization, Jobs Foundation, employment, community, public life, skepticism, social good
Elizabeth speaks with Chine McDonald about her new "Motherhood vs The Machine" podcast, which explores the intersection of motherhood, productivity, technology, and what it means to be human.She discusses the shift in motherhood discourse, womanhood, the challenges of navigating motherhood in professional life, the focus on motherhood vs. parenting, confronting miscarriage and baby loss, and how motherhood can serve as a case study to explore what it means to be human versus machine. Catch the new podcast "Motherhood vs. the Machine" Podcast here 👉 https://tr.ee/y2Z4kmLbNm🎟️ Book your ticket for the SACRED LIVE event: https://linktr.ee/sacredpodcast🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Chine https://x.com/ChineMcDonaldCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to the Motherhood vs. The Machine project02:22 Exploring Motherhood as a Lens 04:56 The Shift in Motherhood Discourse08:01 Embodied Experience of Motherhood10:06 Navigating Professional Life as a Mother13:25 The Particularity of Mothering15:46 Mothering as a Case Study for Humanity18:47 Theological Perspectives on Motherhood21:05 Conversations Across Different Experiences26:16 Reflections on the Podcast JourneyKeywords:motherhood, technology, AI, human experience, parenting, societal change, theological perspectives, maternal experience, work-life balance, grief, productivity, loss, Motherhood, Machine, Technology, Spirituality, Theology, Humanity, AI, Digital, Productivity, Work, Pregnancy, Birthing, Feeding, Death, Grief, Maternal, Identity, Philosophy, Chine, McDonald, Theos, Religion, Society, Podcast, Future, Experience, Personhood, Body, Embodied, Caregiving, Community, Interdependence, Sacred, Divine, Christian, Mysticism, Miscarriage, Loss, Shame, Vulnerability, Growth, Change, Feminist, Postmodernism, Family, Education, Healthcare, Society, Spirituality, Theology, Philosophy, Human, Flourishing, Meaning, Life, Nature, Personhood, Body, Mind, Connection, Caregiving, Community, Interdependence, Sacred, Divine, Christian, Mysticism, Miscarriage, Loss, Shame.#podcast #motherhood
Writer and activist Shane Claiborne calls out the hypocrisy within fundamentalist Evangelical Christianity in America, advocating for a return to the radical compassion of Jesus.
Shane challenges what it means to truly be "pro-life," challenges its entanglement with Christian nationalism, and its allegiance to Donald Trump. As he unpacks these priorities, he wrestles with what to keep, what to challenge, and what bones to "spit out” along the way.
🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
✍️ Follow Shane Claiborne: https://www.instagram.com/shane.claiborne/
CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
01:00 What is Sacred to you? Shane Claiborne Answers
02:49 Shane Claiborne's Formative Years
06:02 Crisis of Faith and Theological Reflection
09:12 The Shift from Cultural Christianity to Authentic Faith
12:05 The Encounter with Mother Teresa
14:55 The Simple Way Community
18:12 Living in Community and Collective Ways
29:21 The Importance of Community in Faith
34:11 Activism and Moral Superiority
39:44 Navigating Injustice and Discomfort
44:14 Understanding the Middle East Conflict
52:40 The Role of Love in Activism
Keywords:
Gun violence, militarism, environmental stewardship, sacredness, humanity, values, childhood, faith, deconstruction, compassion, community, activism, church, communal living, activism, moral superiority, discomfort, Middle East conflict, love, community, social justice, empathy, collective living, Deconstruction, Deconstructing, Questioning, Rethinking, Expanding, Abortion, Sacred, Hypocrisy, Superiority, Nationalism, Religion, Religious, Pro-life, Pro-choice, Fundamentalism, Conservative, Politics, Playbook, Ethics, Activism, Nuanced, Conflict, Humanity, Empathy, Transformation, Justice, Idolatry, Weaponizing, Weaponising, Alliance, Agenda, Co-option, Compassion, Holistic, Systemic, Patriotism, Theological, Community, Expansive, Power, Nationalism, Interpretation, Political, Justification, Spirituality, Grip, Nationalist, Scripture, Tensions, Influence, Alignment, Boundaries, Monopoly, Controversy, Provocative, Challenging, Transformative, Redemptive, Intersectionality, Marginalization, Marginalisation, Oppression, Privilege, Reconciliation, Diversity, Inclusion, Intersections, Intersectional, Racial, Racial-Justice, Equity, Equality, Solidarity, Allyship, Advocacy, Resistance, Decolonization, Decolonisaton, Christianity, Evangelicalism, Faith, Belief, Discipleship, Theology, Scripture, Gospel, Denominationalism, Worship, Spiritual, Devotional, Discipleship, Apologetics.
Announcing a new four-part documentary podcast, Motherhood vs The Machine, where hosts Chine McDonald and Dr Madeleine Pennington look at what motherhood teaches us about what it means to be human.
The work of motherhood has always been changed by technological advancement: from the nipple shield to the feeding bottle and breast pump. But as technological advancement accelerates and a future of artificial wombs and ‘bio bags’ does not seem as far-fetched as it once did, what of the humanity of motherhood might be lost if it is outsourced to machines? What might we miss when the maternal doorway is closed to profound and rarely expressed spiritual ideas - such as sacrifice, love, care, value, dignity, and hope?
Out weekly from 13 March. Find it on all podcasting platforms.
🎙️ Follow Chine McDonald: @ChineMcDonald
🎙️ Follow Dr Madeleine Pennington: @mlmpennington
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
Jameela Jamil joins us for a conversation about her rise to fame, the dangers of divisive echo chambers, and her decision to reject harmful beauty narratives.
With her signature wit and vulnerability, Jameela’s dives into toxic beauty standards, the destructive anti-aging narrative that has plagued women for generations, and the deep-rooted values that inspire Jameela to use her platform as a force for positive change.
🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
✍️ Follow Jameela’s Substack ‘A Low Desire to Please’: https://jameelajamil.substack.com/
CHAPTERS
00:00 What is Sacred to you? Jameela Jamil answers
03:10 Childhood Influences and Personal Struggles
05:52 Navigating Fame and Misogyny
09:03 The Impact of Public Perception
11:58 The Journey of Nonviolent Communication
15:09 Understanding Human Behaviour and Accountability
17:52 The Role of Compassion in Change
33:46 Navigating the Middle East Conflict
34:00 The Impact of Algorithms on Perception
35:20 The Algorithm Swap Experiment
39:31 Understanding Polarisation and Loneliness
41:09 Building Communities of Care
44:01 The Dangers of Short-Form Communication
48:02 Understanding Eating Disorders
52:00 The Pressure of Beauty Standards on Women
56:51 Embracing Aging and Wisdom
01:00:15 Finding Freedom in Self-Acceptance
Keywords:
Sacred Values, Justice, Childhood Trauma, Public Vulnerability, Misogyny, Nonviolent Communication, Human Behaviour, Social Justice, Personal Growth, Emotional Intelligence, Love, Understanding, Echo Chambers, Algorithms, Loneliness, Community, Eating Disorders, Beauty Standards, Aging, Societal Pressures, Fairness, Authenticity, Vulnerability, Resilience, Advocacy, Nonviolent Communication, Algorithmic Bias, Beauty Standards, Ageism, Eating Disorders, Mental Health, Empowerment, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Social Issues, Feminism, Intersectionality, Public Figure, Celebrity, Self-Acceptance, Body Positivity, Societal Change, Human Connection, Nuance, Complexity, Storytelling, Trauma, Overcoming Adversity, Childhood Experiences, Privilege, Marginalization, Marginalisation, Diversity, Inclusion, Activism, Social Media, Public Perception, Personal Branding, Courage, Honesty, Beauty Norms, Ageism, Challenging Systemic Inequities, Danger, Echo Chambers, Empathetic Communication, Self-Development, Self-Help, Vulnerability, Authenticity, Courage to Redefine Success, Justice, Change.
Elizabeth Oldfield and James Orr discuss the relationship between the sacred and the secular, and his conservative political views on Brexit, and his critique of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion policies.
James Orr is the Associate Professor of the Philosophy of Religion at the University of Cambridge.
This episode offers a unique and insightful exploration of the sacred in the modern world, touching on themes of tradition, community, and the human condition. It's a must-listen for those interested in philosophy, religion, and the deeper questions of our shared existence!
If you enjoy episodes of The Sacred don't forget to hit subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode!
🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast
📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/
💡 Produced by the @thinktanktheos www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
✍️ See James' work: @jtworr
Keywords:
sacred, secular, enchantment, ordinary, values, virtues, tradition, formative influences, multilingual, boarding school, religion, faith, journey, conservatism, political beliefs, Brexit, class divide, equality, diversity, inclusion, social cohesion, institutional resilience, metaphysical, human dignity, quantitative, philosophy, religion, theology, Christianity, Catholicism, Anglicanism, moral philosophy, ethics, community, belonging, identity, culture, modernism, postmodernism, transcendence, immanence, sacred-secular divide, spiritual, intellectual, cultural, political, social, personal, formation, transformation
