Everything Happens with Kate Bowler

Oliver Burkeman, journalist and author of "Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals," joins to challenge the myth of hyper-efficiency and the endless pursuit of self-improvement. He shares insights on how embracing our limitations can lead to deeper contentment. The discussion critiques common self-help narratives, emphasizes the balance between personal ambitions and the realities of life, and encourages finding joy in unexpected moments. It’s a refreshing take on prioritizing what truly matters over the pressure to constantly do more.

In a heartfelt conversation, Kelly Corrigan, a renowned author and podcaster known for her memoir "The Middle Place," shares insights on navigating the highs and lows of life. She reflects on the beauty of new friendships, the power of connection during tough times, and the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye. With humor and candor, they discuss personal anecdotes, the significance of self-care, and the importance of being present with loved ones, reminding us that joy and sorrow often coexist.

In this heartfelt conversation, author and podcaster Kelly Corrigan shares her insights on navigating life's highs and lows. She and Kate discuss the tension of chronic struggles and the pressure to optimize happiness while embracing our messy realities. Laughing through the chaos of family life and holiday pressures, Kelly highlights the importance of emotional awareness and community support. Together, they explore how beauty and pain coexist, urging listeners to find meaning in both the 'crappy' and 'happy' moments.

Safiya Sinclair, a Jamaican-American poet and author of "How to Say Babylon," shares her journey of growing up in a Rasta family in Montego Bay. She discusses the intertwining of personal identity with Jamaican national history and the Rastafari movement's influence on her upbringing. Safiya reflects on the power of poetry for self-discovery and breaking free from familial expectations. She also explores themes of gender roles, the balance of agency and submission, and the impact of storytelling in shaping aspirations.

Explore the profound themes of Advent, a season filled with hope and reflection, as it encourages living with open eyes to the world’s imperfections. Discover the significance of early colon cancer screening and the American Cancer Society's updated guidelines. Dive into the journey of self-acceptance and the power of affirmation, reflecting on the beauty found in our flaws. Embrace the concept of belovedness, recognizing your intrinsic worth and the divine love that surrounds you amidst life's chaos.

Today’s conversation is dedicated to the many loves that make up our lives—especially that of our friends. Dolly Alderton is a Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling writer and memoirist. She recognizes the great gift of the friends who have walked with her through many seasons of life—all the highs and lows and inbetweens.  In this conversation, Kate and Dolly discuss: The great loves that make up a life The push-pull of loving relationships with your body  The power of witness If you liked this conversation, you'll also like: Liz Gilbert on fostering creative lives Sarah Bessey on living inside our (actual) bodies Tim Omundson and Joel McHale on being a friend through hard times   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.

In this episode, Rev. Dr. Sam Wells, vicar at St. Martin-in-the-Fields and a prominent theologian, dives deep into the essence of 'being with.' He discusses the challenges of staying close to those in pain without the impulse to fix their problems. Sam beautifully illustrates the unexpected strength found in simply showing up for others. He emphasizes that love can be tough, the importance of surrendering the need to help, and highlights the profound beauty in shared moments of presence during life's darker times.

Wilma Derksen, a victim advocate and speaker, shares her profound journey after the tragic murder of her daughter, Candace, in the 1980s. She and Kate delve into the complexities of living with grief and the challenging path to forgiveness. Wilma discusses the ongoing struggle for self-forgiveness and how community support played a vital role in her healing. Their conversation emphasizes the intricate relationship between trauma and forgiveness, highlighting the transformative power of understanding and connection in the face of unimaginable loss.

Maya Shankar, a renowned expert in personal growth and host of A Slight Change of Plans, dives deep into the profound impact of unexpected life changes. She shares her reflective journey after a devastating cancer diagnosis, challenging the misconception that success is solely earned through effort. The conversation touches on the emotional turmoil of facing mortality, navigating hope amid suffering, and the importance of community support. Shankar urges listeners to confront the unpredictability of life with empathy and resilience.

Parker Palmer, a writer, teacher, and activist, shares his wisdom on navigating despair and maintaining hope amidst societal challenges. He discusses his journey through clinical depression and the importance of redefining achievement. The conversation emphasizes how community engagement can counter negative media narratives, transforming heartache into compassion. Palmer encourages listeners to embrace their brokenheartedness as a means to foster genuine connections and reminds us that even in dark times, our hearts can remain soft and resilient.