Everything Happens with Kate Bowler

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.

In this engaging conversation, N.T. Wright, a leading New Testament scholar and prolific author, tackles the complexities of interpreting scripture, especially Romans 8:28. He discusses how certain interpretations can weaponize the Bible, especially in moments of suffering. Wright emphasizes the significance of lament and the need for compassionate responses to those in pain. He also explores how personal experiences shape our understanding of faith, encouraging a deeper investigation into God’s presence during hardships.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist and bestselling author, delves into the urgency of rethinking our beliefs in a world of uncertainty. He encourages embracing 'imposter syndrome' as a sign of growth rather than a flaw. The importance of having friends who challenge our views is highlighted, urging listeners to step outside their comfort zones. Grant also emphasizes 'confident humility' in leadership, advocating for a learner mindset to support personal development amidst life's complexities.

Morgan Harper Nichols, an artist and poet renowned for her uplifting work, joins the conversation to explore the deeper truths of resilience and community. She emphasizes how reflections of hope can lift us during life's challenges. Morgan discusses the fusion of poetry and visual art as a means of personal expression, and the healing power of shared stories. The dialogue touches on the importance of safe spaces for discussing trauma, and how navigating doubts in faith can transform our art and self-discovery.

Maria Bowler, a writer, creativity coach, and spiritual director, joins her sister Kate for an enlightening chat. They tackle the incessant pressure of the 'producer self' and the need to redefine our self-worth beyond accomplishments. Maria shares insights on giving ourselves permission to rest, the difference between meaningful work and hollow hustle, and the joy of engaging in activities 'for no reason.' They emphasize the importance of self-acceptance, creativity, and fostering genuine connections, reminding us that we are already enough.

Christie Watson, a registered nurse, author, and professor, shares her heartfelt insights from two decades in nursing, including a return to the frontlines during COVID-19. She discusses the emotional toll on healthcare workers and the vital role of compassion in caregiving. Christie emphasizes the need for support and appreciation for nurses after the pandemic, highlighting the significance of love and connection in healthcare. This moving conversation underscores the importance of understanding and embracing human stories amid life's challenges.