
Everything Happens with Kate Bowler
Are you living your best life now? Not always? This is a podcast for you. Duke Professor Kate Bowler is an expert in the stories we tell about success and failure, suffering and happiness. She had Stage IV cancer. Then she didn’t. And since then, all she wants to do is talk to funny and wise people about how to live with the knowledge that, well, everything happens. Find her online at @katecbowler.
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Latest episodes

10 snips
May 13, 2025 • 44min
Amanda Doyle: When Fixing Isn’t Loving
In this conversation, Amanda Doyle, a producer and author, shares her journey of being the reliable caretaker while facing her own challenges, including parenting a neurodivergent child and a breast cancer diagnosis. She discusses the struggle of turning fixing into a form of control, the bravery in accepting love, and the crucial need for vulnerability. Amanda enlightens listeners about breast density awareness and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare. Ultimately, she emphasizes the grace found in letting others show up for us.

May 6, 2025 • 44min
Lisa Damour: How to Talk to Teenagers
Lisa Damour, a bestselling author and expert on teen psychology, joins the conversation to illuminate the complexities of adolescent emotions. She discusses the fine line between normal teenage angst and genuine concern, emphasizing that emotional expression is a strength, not a sign of fragility. Damour highlights the significant impact of sleep on mental health and offers practical strategies for adults to communicate effectively with teens. She also addresses the challenges posed by social media, suggesting ways to set healthy boundaries.

9 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 33min
Father Ron Rolheiser: The Ache That Makes Us Human
Father Ron Rolheiser, a revered Roman Catholic priest and bestselling author, dives deep into the human experience of longing and ache. He explores why this feeling is central to our existence and how it can lead to greater spiritual insight. The discussion touches on the necessity of community in healing, embracing life's imperfections, and the role of honest communication in personal growth. Ron emphasizes the importance of navigating faith amidst struggle, offering a hopeful perspective for those feeling restless or disappointed.

Apr 22, 2025 • 39min
Melinda Gates: That Clearing in Between
Melinda Gates, a leading philanthropist and advocate for women, shares her journey through life's significant transitions. She discusses the bravery required during uncertain times and the importance of listening to your inner voice. Emphasizing the concept of being a 'good enough' parent and partner, Gates highlights the value of friendships and community support. The conversation also touches on the impact of personal growth amid change and the ongoing necessity for investing in women's empowerment globally.

11 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 45min
Sarah Bessey: Faith That Survives
Sarah Bessey, a writer and co-founder of Evolving Faith, shares her journey through spiritual disillusionment and the beauty of uncertainty. She and Kate discuss the evolution of faith and why certainty is overrated. They explore the grief associated with losing one’s previous beliefs and the transformative power of community support. With insight and compassion, Sarah reminds us that God exists in both light and darkness, inviting everyone to embrace their doubts as part of the spiritual growth process.

9 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 38min
Simone Gorrindo: The Cost of Love and Duty
Simone Gorrindo, a journalist and author of 'The Wives,' shares her journey as a military spouse in a world she never expected. She discusses the emotional complexities of love and duty, revealing how her partner's military service reshaped her identity. The conversation dives into the loneliness of waiting, the necessity of resilience, and the importance of community support. Gorrindo reflects on the sacrifices that come with love, emphasizing the balance between personal and shared responsibilities in relationships that demand constant adaptation.

16 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 38min
Jeff Chu: Good Soil
Join Jeff Chu, a writer and pastor with a unique journey from journalism to theology, in a heartfelt discussion. He explores finding profound meaning in unexpected places, like compost, highlighting how grief and loss pave the way for new life. The conversation delves into the complexities of family bonds, small acts of kindness, and the importance of community. Jeff shares insights on feeling loved even amidst life's challenges and how ordinary gestures create a sense of belonging. Hope evolves slowly, but it certainly grows!

16 snips
Mar 25, 2025 • 48min
Pádraig Ó Tuama: In the Name of Belonging
Pádraig Ó Tuama, an Irish poet, theologian, and conflict mediator, shares his insights on the nature of belonging amidst disagreement. He discusses the exhaustion and fragility of peace and the surprising power of curiosity in bridging divides. Through personal reflections on identity and cultural tensions, Pádraig emphasizes the balance between comfort and cost in belonging. He advocates for empathy and dialogue, exploring the ongoing practice of nurturing peace and connection, all while recognizing the beauty and complexity of our shared humanity.

18 snips
Mar 18, 2025 • 38min
Amy Griffin: Some Warriors Weep
In this conversation with Kate Bowler, Amy Griffin, founder of G9 Ventures and author of "The Tell," opens up about her transformative journey from childhood trauma to healing. She discusses the relentless pressure of perfectionism and the freedom found in embracing imperfection. Amy shares how psychedelic therapy helped her unlock buried memories and transform her narrative. Throughout, she emphasizes the power of storytelling and genuine connections in the healing process, reminding us that it's not about erasing the past, but carrying it with grace.

4 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 44min
Coach K: Love in Winning, Love in Losing
In a heartfelt and humorous conversation, legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski shares insights on trust and leadership from his extensive career at Duke and Team USA. He emphasizes the transformative power of believing in others before they believe in themselves. Coach K discusses the importance of honest feedback and how vulnerability fosters strong team connections. With anecdotes about handling failure and the courage it takes to support growth, he highlights the emotional journey behind coaching and life's transitions.