Parker J. Palmer

In this engaging conversation, Parker J. Palmer, an influential activist and educator, shares insights from over 30 years of facilitating transformative experiences. He emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces that allow for reflection and dialogue while respecting diverse perspectives. Palmer critiques traditional education, encouraging a compassionate approach that embraces uncertainty. With anecdotes from history, he illustrates the power of patience and vulnerability in catalyzing social change, inspiring listeners to approach facilitation with fresh curiosity and authenticity.

We’re increasingly attentive to the many faces of depression and anxiety, and we’re fluent in the languages of psychology and medication. But depression is profound spiritual territory; and that is much harder to speak about. This is an On Being classic. Krista opens up about her own experience of depression and talks with Parker Palmer, Anita Barrows, and Andrew Solomon. We are putting this out on the air again because people tell us it has saved lives, and so many of us are struggling in whole new ways right now.Andrew Solomon is a journalist and writer of epic books, including the Pulitzer Prize finalist  The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression, and Far from the Tree: Parents, Children, and the Search for Identity.Anita Barrows is a psychologist, poet and translator. Her most recent poetry collection is We are the Hunger. She has translated several volumes of the writings of Rainer Maria Rilke together with  Joanna Macy, including Rilke's Book of Hours: Love Poems to God.Parker J. Palmer is a teacher, author, and founder and senior partner emeritus of the Center for Courage & Renewal. His many books include Healing the Heart of Democracy, Let Your Life Speak, and On the Brink of Everything: Grace, Gravity, and Getting Old. Find the transcript for this show at onbeing.orgThis show originally aired January 17, 2003

In this episode Carrie and Parker continue their conversation about creativity and the undivided life, writing from the "margins", following a call to and beyond the growing edge, and the red threads that run through Parker's work over the past 50 years. This podcast also features one of Parker's poems, "The Poem I Would Have Writ."

Join Parker Palmer, a prolific writer and activist known for his insights on leadership and social change, as he teams up with Jerry Colonna to explore the concept of 'shadow' in leadership. They delve into how unconscious aspects of ourselves influence our work and relationships. Their discussion emphasizes the importance of vulnerability for authentic leadership and how embracing one's shadow can lead to personal growth. They also tackle the challenges of fear in educational environments and the value of reframing failures in collaborative settings.

Parker Palmer, a legendary teacher and activist, joins Jerry Colonna, a CEO coach and co-founder of Reboot, for an insightful discussion on embracing impermanence. They explore how accepting change enriches our lives and fosters community. Personal stories highlight the beauty of vulnerability and the importance of deep connections amidst uncertainty. They advocate for letting go of control and finding genuine purpose, emphasizing growth through our shared experiences of loss and the transformative power of supportive relationships.

Parker Palmer, a renowned writer and activist, dives deep into the complexities of the human spirit, drawing from his work at the Center for Courage and Renewal. He sheds light on embracing wholeness and the importance of nurturing inner positivity. He shares his personal journey through depression, emphasizing the critical role of authentic friendships. The conversation navigates the transformative power of genuine connections, self-reflection, and the resilience needed to grow through life's challenges, leaving listeners inspired and hopeful.

Join the host in a deep conversation with Parker J. Palmer about vocational clarity, self-discovery, and the value of community. Explore the importance of solitude, reflection, and embracing the wild spark within us. Gain insights on aligning with life's rhythm and daily discernment for personal growth.

Writer, speaker, and activist Parker J. Palmer discusses his journey of listening to life, prioritizing authenticity over nobility, and finding clarity through silence. He shares experiences of depression, embracing limitations, and the transformative power of solitude. The episode delves into themes of vocation, self-discovery, and living a good life through gratitude and generosity.

Parker Palmer, founder of the Center for Courage & Renewal, is a renowned writer and activist focused on community, leadership, and social change. In this engaging conversation, he explores the journey towards wholeness, discussing the interplay of solitude and community for personal growth. Palmer shares candid insights about his experiences with depression and emphasizes the importance of embracing both light and dark aspects of ourselves. He introduces the 'Circle of Trust' concept, highlighting the significance of open dialogue and understanding in bridging societal divides.

Parker J. Palmer, an esteemed author and mentor, shares his insights on understanding ourselves and each other. He discusses the challenges of giving advice and the importance of creating a supportive environment for open dialogue. Palmer emphasizes building community through empathy and deep listening, highlighting how genuine connection can transform relationships. He also addresses the pitfalls of superficial engagement in leadership and the fundamental human need for recognition, urging listeners to embrace self-understanding for personal growth.