Episodes

  • Befriending the KKK and Dismantling Racism with Daryl Davis

    Befriending the KKK and Dismantling Racism with Daryl Davis
    Nov 13 2024
    Daryl Davis shares a unique perspective on the motivations behind white supremacy and what it takes to see the gradual transformation of KKK members. Hosts Elizabeth Oldfield and Alex Evans, delve into the extraordinary story of Daryl Davis, a Blues musician who has spent decades befriending and dialoguing with members of the Ku Klux Klan. Driven by a deep curiosity to understand the roots of racism, Daryl has taken an unconventional approach, choosing empathy and open communication over confrontation. Discover the profound impact one person can have in bridging the divide and fostering greater understanding between communities. 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 Daryl's work: https://www.daryldavis.com/
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Porn, Feminism and Misogyny in the Media with Sarah Ditum

    Porn, Feminism and Misogyny in the Media with Sarah Ditum
    Nov 6 2024
    Sarah Ditum delves into her journey through the strands of feminism, the misogynistic "upskirt decade" - the invasive celebrity culture of the late 90s and 2000s that often exploited and shamed young women, and her views on the role of pornography and its impact on mainstream culture. Sarah is a critic and columnist for The Times and The Sunday Times, and author of the book "Toxic: Women and the Noughties." This wide-ranging conversation provides a nuanced look at the evolution of feminist thought, the power of media narratives, and the personal experiences that have informed Sarah Ditum's worldview. 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 Sarah's book "Toxic: Women, Fame, and the Tabloid 2000s": https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61783796-toxic Referenced text: Choice Feminism and the Fear of Politics http://www.jstor.org/stable/25698532 CHAPTERS 00:00 What is Sacred to you? Sarah Ditum answers 02:54 Navigating Gender Identity and Journalism 06:14 The Importance of Disagreement in Politics 09:10 Childhood Influences and Upbringing 11:48 Feminism and Personal Identity 15:11 The Impact of Motherhood on Feminist Views 19:11 The Upskirt Decade: Media and Women 28:03 The Intersection of Privacy and Gender 34:03 The Reasonable Expectation of Privacy 35:56 Cultural Norms and the Sexualisation of Women 39:05 Cultural Poisoning and Media Influence 41:53 Nihilism and the Impact of 9/11 on Culture 44:10 Changing Narratives: Celebrity Women Today 47:59 The Evolution of Language Around Abuse 51:21 The Normalisation of Sexualisation and Pornography 57:50 The Exploitative Nature of the Porn Industry 01:01:35 Cultural Stories and Their Impact on Identity Keywords pornography, feminism, gender identity, motherhood, media, privacy, women's rights, sacred values, upskirt decade, journalism, privacy, cultural norms, sexualization, sexualisation, media influence, nihilism, celebrity culture, abuse language, pornography, exploitation, identity
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Scandals, Faith Crises & the Spiritual Realm with Rod Dreher

    Scandals, Faith Crises & the Spiritual Realm with Rod Dreher
    Oct 30 2024
    Rod Dreher and Elizabeth Oldfield delve into Rod's coverage of the Catholic sex abuse scandal, converting to Eastern Orthodoxy, his views on immigration and Donald Trump and supernatural experiences. 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 Rod Dreher's new book 'Living in Wonder: Finding Mystery and Meaning in a Secular Age' CHAPTERS 00:00:00 What is Sacred to you? Rod Dreher answers 00:06:28 Family, Place, and the Weight of Expectations 00:10:16 Moral Foundations and Personal Crisis 00:17:54 The Benedict Option: A Call to Intentional Living 00:26:25 The Journey to Orthodoxy and the Search for Transcendence 00:30:39 Living in Wonder: Rediscovering the Enchanted World 00:33:03 The Unseen Battle: Spiritual Awareness 00:36:44 Encounters with the Divine: Transformative Stories 00:39:41 Spiritual climate 00:43:03 Conservative politics, Trump and faith 00:48:42 The willingness to suffer for your beliefs Keywords: Dreher, Christian, Orthodox, Conversion, Benedict, Community, Spiritual, Moral, Innocence, Hierarchy, Southern, Humour, Family, Idolatry, Abuse, Authority, Storytelling, Enchantment, Beauty, Supernatural, Politics, Immigration, Vulnerability, Suffering, Humility, Compassion, Culture, Havel, Reverence, Resilience, Conservative, Trump, Rod Dreher, Exorcism, Spiritual Warfare, sexual abuse, catholic church, scandal, faith, crisis, immigration, eastern orthodox, spirituality, spiritual battle, innocence of children, family values, moral foundations, Benedict Option, Eastern Orthodoxy, living in wonder, transcendence, core values, intentional living, spirituality, exorcism, divine encounters, political theology, vulnerability, Christianity, paganism, public witness, supernatural, cultural engagement
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Father James Martin on Chastity, Controversy & Building Bridges with LGBTQ Catholics

    Father James Martin on Chastity, Controversy & Building Bridges with LGBTQ Catholics
    Oct 23 2024
    Father James Martin and our host, Elizabeth Oldfield discuss his journey to becoming a Catholic priest and the Jesuit motto of finding God in everything. We spoke about the difficulty of living a life of chastity, becoming a vocal advocate for LGBTQ inclusion within the Catholic Church and navigating backlash as a public figure. 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/ 📕 Purchase Fr James Martin's new book 'Come Forth' here: https://www.eden.co.uk/christian-books/bible-study/academic-bible-study/come-forth/ CHAPTERS 00:00 What is Sacred to you? Father James Martin replies 00:54 Understanding the Sacred 02:50 The Role of Discernment in Life 05:46 Childhood Influences and Early Life 09:08 Transitioning from Business to Jesuit Life 11:56 Exploring Religious Orders 14:51 Community Living and Its Challenges 18:10 Chastity is difficult 20:05 Having a public voice 23:00 Advocacy for the LGBTQ Community 27:16 Spiritual Rejection and backlash 32:06 Understanding Radicalisation and Disagreement 34:32 The Role of Politics in Division 38:58 Finding the Balance in Discourse 40:24 Exploring the Themes of 'Come Forth' 44:44 Jesuit Wisdom on Understanding Others 49:06 The Importance of Connection in Disagreement --- Keywords Compassion, Catholic, Jesuit, Priest, Humanity, Monastic, Despair, Hope, Jesus, Catholic, Religion, Theology, Spirituality, Ministry, Pastoral, Devotion, Morality, Ethics, Belief, Tradition, Contemplation, Mysticism, Interfaith, Ecumenical, Jesuit priest, Catholic spirituality, Finding God in all things, Discernment of spirits, LGBTQ advocacy in the Catholic Church, Navigating controversy and criticism, Chastity and religious life, Compassion and empathy in faith, Bridging divides and understanding differences, Vocation and calling, Spirituality and everyday life, Theological perspectives on Jesus's humanity, Intentional community and monastic living, division, politics, listening, relationship, Overcoming despair and cultivating hope, Balancing public ministry and personal faith, Lessons in listening and giving the benefit of the doubt, Exploring sacred and secular in modern life, Insights from a Jesuit priest and author, Navigating faith, difference, and social justice, Transformative spiritual journeys
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    53 mins
  • Converting to Islam and the Pursuit of Meaning with Dr Timothy Winter (Abdal Hakim Murad)

    Converting to Islam and the Pursuit of Meaning with Dr Timothy Winter (Abdal Hakim Murad)
    Oct 16 2024
    Elizabeth Oldfield sits down with renowned Islamic theologian Dr. Timothy Winter (Abdal Hakim Murad) to explore his journey to Islam and the depth and richness that he finds within the Islamic spiritual tradition. Dr. Winter shares the story of his own transformative journey, from attending a Christian school to a deep immersion in the world of Islam. Beyond his personal narrative, Dr. Winter delves into the surprising commonalities between Christianity and Islam, challenging common misconceptions and inviting listeners to consider the universal human yearning for the sacred. He also reflects on the resurgence of interest in traditional forms of religion and the need for a more prophetic, counter-cultural approach to faith. 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/ CHAPTERS 00:00 What is Sacred to you? Dr Timothy Winter answers 03:13 The Nature of Monotheism: Understanding Semitic Traditions 06:10 Childhood Influences: A Middle-Class English Upbringing 09:03 Family Legacy: Architecture, Modernism, and Religion 11:54 Education and Early Skepticism: The Role of Westminster School 14:45 The Search for Meaning: From Unitarianism to Islam 18:06 Sexuality and Spirituality 20:55 The Path to Conversion: A Gradual Awakening 23:46 Islam and Identity: Finding Roots in Faith 29:39 The Intersection of Islam and Christianity 33:07 Understanding Key Aspects of Islam 37:16 Interfaith Engagement 41:46 The Complexities of Jesus and Muhammad 42:16 Current Spiritual Landscape and Trends 48:15 Engaging with Differences and Common Humanity --- Keywords Islam, Christianity, monotheism, spirituality, sexuality, conversion, personal journey, theology, education, family legacy, Christianity, interfaith dialogue, spirituality, conversion, religious identity, cultural differences, common humanity, religious trends, Islamic theologian, lecturer in Islamic studies, Muslim devotional literature, Islamic theology, Interfaith dialogue, religious pluralism, Spirituality and modernity, Secularization, secularisation, Religious conversion, Sufism, Islamic philosophy, Islamic culture, Muslim identity, Muslim community, Religious revivalism, Postmodernism and religion, globalisation, Globalization and religion, Spiritual awakening, Transcendence, Meaning of life, Existential questions
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    59 mins
  • Becoming the People We Need at the End of the World with Sarah Wilson

    Becoming the People We Need at the End of the World with Sarah Wilson
    Oct 9 2024
    From two different spiritual perspectives, we explore what it means to remain connected, rooted and to live a meaning-filled life in these turbulent times. Drawing from their personal experiences and spiritual journeys, they delve into the nature of the sacred, the importance of relationships and community, and the practical steps we can take to resist being poorly formed in these times of uncertainty. 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/ ✨ Learn more about Sarah Wilson https://sarahwilson.com/ -- Authors Elizabeth Oldfield and Sarah Wilson delve into the profound questions of what it means to be fully human and alive in these turbulent times. Exploring themes of the sacred, relationships, and spiritual core strength, they offer a holistic perspective on navigating the complexities of the modern world. Drawing from their personal experiences and diverse spiritual backgrounds, Elizabeth and Sarah share wisdom on overcoming acedia, cultivating resilience, and rediscovering a sense of purpose and connection. Whether you're grappling with grief, seeking to deepen your understanding of the human condition, or simply yearning for a more meaningful way of living, this dialogue offers invaluable insights. Listeners will be inspired to reclaim the sacred, embrace their shared humanity, and find practical steps to become more fully alive, even amidst the challenges of our current moment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in personal growth, spirituality, and the future of humanity.
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • The Rise of Tarot, Astrology and New Age Spirituality with Psychic Dr Kate Tomas

    The Rise of Tarot, Astrology and New Age Spirituality with Psychic Dr Kate Tomas
    Oct 2 2024
    We sit down with Dr. Kate Tomas, a philosopher and spiritual mentor, to discuss her experience as a psychic, and the rising discussion about younger generations and New Age/spiritual practices. Elizabeth Oldfield speaks to Kate about her upbringing and what led her to psychic work, how 'intuitive wisdom' is used by many of the world's wealthiest people, why young people are drawn to astrology and tarot, and how the lack of accountability may leave room for harm. 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/
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    1 hr and 21 mins
  • Can We Have Empathy in the Face of Evil? With Gwen Adshead

    Can We Have Empathy in the Face of Evil? With Gwen Adshead
    Sep 25 2024
    We sit down with Dr. Gwen Adshead, a renowned forensic psychologist and psychotherapist, to explore her remarkable approach to understanding and treating the most disturbing human behaviours and experiences. Elizabeth Oldfield speaks to Gwen about finding the sacred and the transcendent even in the darkest corners of the human experience. Through her unique lens, she bridges the divide between victim and perpetrator, revealing the common vulnerability and potential for both good and evil that exists within us all. 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ -- In a world that often seems divided between good and evil, Dr. Gwen Adshead's work as a forensic psychologist offers a radical and compassionate perspective. By delving into the darkest corners of the human experience, Adshead challenges us to reconsider our assumptions about morality, justice, and the nature of the human condition. Her insights into the shared vulnerability and potential for both cruelty and redemption that exists within us all provide a thought-provoking exploration of the complex interplay between the sacred and the profane. Whether you're fascinated by the psychology of criminal behaviour, the role of spirituality in mental health, or the deeper philosophical questions of our time, this episode of The Sacred podcast is a must-listen.
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    55 mins