Everything Happens with Kate Bowler

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

Lent is here—the season we stop pretending we’re fine and admit that life is…a lot. It’s forty days of naming what’s fragile, walking toward the hard truths, and resisting the urge to skip straight to the happy ending. In this special Ask Kate Anything episode, Kate answers your biggest, messiest questions: How do we stay soft in a brutal world? How do we practice Lent when life is already exhausting? What do we do when faith unravels? And because sometimes words aren’t enough, singer-songwriter Katelyn Tarver stops by to perform her song “Sh*t Happens,” an anthem for all of us who know that life doesn’t always make sense. In this episode, Kate discusses: Why Lent is for the weary, the doubting, and the grieving. How to hold both grief and hope. A faith that doesn’t demand you have it all figured out. You’re invited to join us for lent—ashes, doubts, imperfections, and all. Download The Hardest Part Lent Guide for free at katebowler.com/lent.   Watch clips from this conversation, read the full transcript, and access discussion questions by clicking here or visiting katebowler.com/podcasts. Follow Kate on Instagram, Facebook, or X (formerly known as Twitter)—@katecbowler. Links to social pages and more available at linktr.ee/katecbowler.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Vivek Murthy, former U.S. Surgeon General known for tackling public health issues, discusses the profound effects of loneliness and the critical nature of human connection. He emphasizes that fulfillment stems from relationships, purpose, and service rather than traditional measures of success. Dr. Murthy offers practical ways to foster connections, even in awkward moments, and highlights the importance of community support in overcoming feelings of isolation. Together, they explore the healing power of genuine bonds in an increasingly digital world.