Calmversations

Fr. Matthew Dallman, an Anglican priest and host of the Anglican Ascetic Podcast, shares his spiritual journey and insights into the Anglican tradition. He discusses navigating faith in a digital age and the transformative power of silent prayer, emphasizing the importance of teaching prayer practices. The conversation also touches on the influence of modern media on spirituality, interpreting scripture symbolically, and the role of religious icons in worship. Throughout, humor and personal anecdotes illuminate the joys and challenges of parish life.

Lionel Shriver, a storied author known for her gripping novels and incisive cultural commentary, dives deep into provocative topics like the sexual revolution and gender ideology. She critiques the baby boomer generation and reflects on her upbringing during tumultuous times in Northern Ireland. Shriver sheds light on the complexities of identity politics, societal pressures regarding gender, and the impact of immigration on European cultural dynamics. With a blend of humor and critical insight, she navigates the challenges of modern societal norms and personal narratives.

Nicolas Flowers, an artist, illustrator, and author known for his work on 'Froggy Girl', shares his insightful journey of navigating conflicting identities. He recounts his upbringing in a mixed-race family in Japan and the challenges of self-acceptance in America. Flowers discusses the transformative power of art and sports in his life, his experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community, and the complexities of medical transition. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, emotional growth, and the role of family dynamics in shaping one's identity.

Dive into a captivating discussion with Aethemplar as they reframe the political landscape through historical lenses. Explore the nostalgic 'ghost dancing' of political identity and how crises reshape ideologies. Delve into the complexities of American values and the potential for unity amidst division. The interplay of faith and immigration highlights our shared humanity, while archetypes in leadership reveal the need for environmental awareness. Finally, consider the transformative power of myth and the evolution of governance in today’s political climate.

Join Graham Linehan, celebrated writer of The IT Crowd, and Cori Cohn, co-host of Heterodorx, as they explore the evolution of comedy in today's changing cultural landscape. They tackle the impact of censorship on humor, juxtapose British and American comedic styles, and lament the decline of liberal humor. The duo also dives into gender fairness in sports, sharing Cori's personal experiences with activism. With sharp insights into storytelling and the complexities of societal discourse, their candid discussions navigate the challenges facing creators in a polarizing world.

Father Michael Lillie, an Orthodox priest and host of the @OrthodoxExperience YouTube channel, shares his transformative journey from Catholicism to Orthodoxy. He discusses the importance of confession and the Eucharist, reflecting on the spiritual significance of feast days and personal struggles. Lillie delves into the complexities of clergy hierarchies and the doctrine of the Trinity, revealing how these beliefs shape personal faith. He highlights the vital role of community and the transformative power of spiritual practices in fostering a deeper connection with God.

Pamela Garfield-Jaeger, an author and former social worker, shares her journey from progressive beliefs to activism against gender affirming care for minors. She discusses her children's book, "Froggy Girl," which promotes self-acceptance while critiquing contemporary gender ideology. Garfield-Jaeger opens up about her struggle with thoracic outlet syndrome, highlighting resilience and the importance of community. She also reflects on the personal trauma linked to historical events like 9/11 and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her evolving identity and therapeutic approach.

PF Jung, an enlightened centrist and political content creator, dives into today's heated political climate. He unpacks the factors behind political realignment, including economic disparities, Israel's influence, and Christian ideologies. The conversation offers a unique lens on the interplay of identity and politics, as well as the implications of wealth inequality on societal stability. Jung addresses the need for balanced discourse and critiques of neoliberal capitalism, all while weaving in personal anecdotes that shed light on navigating these complex topics.

John LaRuffa, a passionate board game enthusiast and YouTuber, discusses his journey through the world of board gaming, focusing on the rise of solo gaming, especially during the pandemic. He shares his personal evolution from casual family games to strategic titles like Settlers of Catan. The conversation dives into the intricacies of game mechanics, the art of board game design, and the balance between strategy and engagement. LaRuffa also reflects on his content creation journey, highlighting the unexpected successes and challenges in reviewing complex games.

Sasha Ayad, a licensed counselor specializing in gender dysphoria among adolescents, shares insights from her extensive experience with youth and their families. She explores the metaphor of gender, emphasizing the need for nuanced discussions around identity. The conversation highlights the impact of family dynamics on gender exploration and the importance of self-compassion. Sasha also reflects on her digital journey and the challenges of maintaining a consistent identity online, advocating for open and compassionate dialogues in today’s rapidly evolving societal landscape.