Nomad Podcast

Many of us have left behind the religion we inherited. But what, then, are we reaching for? In this conversation, Celtic teacher John Philip Newell reflects on what he calls the Great Search—a deep yearning for soul, earth, and home at a time of ecological breakdown and religious collapse. John Philip explores the tension between temple and wilderness, soul and ego, doctrine and direct experience, and reflects on the relinquishment of his ordination, the sacredness of the Earth, and the wisdom found in mystics across traditions. With poetic depth and prophetic insight, John Philip shares why returning to the light within ourselves, one another, and the Earth might be the beginning of something truly new. After the conversation, Nomad hosts Tim Nash and Nick Thorley reflect on what it means to live with two wings of awareness — beauty and suffering — and how spiritual friendship, embodied practices, and a relationship with the Earth might help us navigate a time of profound unraveling. Interview starts at 17m 37s Books, quotes, links → The creation of Nomad’s thoughtful, ad-free content is entirely funded by our equally thoughtful and wonderful listeners. By supporting us, you gain access to Nomad’s online spaces—like the Beloved Listener Lounge, Enneagram Lounge, and Book Club—as well as bonus episodes such as Nomad Contemplations, Therapeutic Reflections, and Nomad Revisited. If you’d like to join our lovely community of supporters, head over to our Patreon page. You might even be rewarded with a Nomad pen or our coveted Beloved Listener mug! If a monthly commitment isn’t possible right now, a one-off donation is always deeply appreciated—you can do that here. Looking to connect with others nearby? Check out the Listener Map or join our Nomad Gathering Facebook group. And if you're up for sharing your own story, we regularly post reflections from listeners on our blog—all with the hope of fostering deeper understanding, connection and supportive relationships. If you'd like to share your story on the blog, contact us for more information here.

In this conversation, Joy sits down with eco-therapists Jenny Biglands and Vicky Broadbent to explore the growing field of ecotherapy, where nature itself becomes a partner in the healing process. Jenny and Vicky reflect on their faith journeys, what led them into therapeutic work, and how moving outdoors has transformed their practice. They explore themes of power and vulnerability, showing how simply walking side by side or sitting beneath a tree can open new pathways to presence and change. And they wonder whether reconnecting with the natural world might help us face climate grief with courage, creativity, and love. After the conversation, Nomad hosts Anna Robinson and Joy Brooks reflect on the blurred lines between therapy, spirituality and nature connection, the importance of finding safety and edges in outdoor spaces, and how Celtic rhythms and seasonal rituals can root us more deeply in our own places. Conversation starts at 16m 08s Books, quotes, links → Want to go deeper? Jenny and Vicky are running Exploring the Sacred in Nature — a one-day retreat in Shipley, West Yorkshire, UK. It’s a chance to slow down, explore your relationship with nature and the sacred, and discover new ways of living well. Book your place here and spend a day reconnecting with the wild within. This episode was recorded at the beautiful Cow Close Farm in Derbyshire, UK. If you’d like to stay in one of their holiday cottages and experience the same stunning surroundings, they’re offering Nomad listeners 15% off with the code nomad15. Find out more here. The creation of Nomad’s thoughtful, ad-free content is entirely funded by our equally thoughtful and wonderful listeners. By supporting us, you gain access to Nomad’s online spaces—like the Beloved Listener Lounge, Enneagram Lounge, and Book Club—as well as bonus episodes such as Nomad Contemplations, Therapeutic Reflections, and Nomad Revisited. If you’d like to join our lovely community of supporters, head over to our Patreon page. You might even be rewarded with a Nomad pen or our coveted Beloved Listener mug! If a monthly commitment isn’t possible right now, a one-off donation is always deeply appreciated—you can do that here. Looking to connect with others nearby? Check out the Listener Map or join our Nomad Gathering Facebook group. And if you're up for sharing your own story, we regularly post reflections from listeners on our blog—all with the hope of fostering deeper understanding, connection and supportive relationships. If you'd like to share your story on the blog, contact us for more information here.

In this conversation, womanist theologian Selina Stone reflects on the hidden ways power is shaped by theology — and how theology, in turn, can be shaped by power. Drawing on her book A Heavy Yoke: Theology, Power and Abuse in the Church, she explores how divine calling, servant leadership, and spiritual authority can all become tools of control, especially in charismatic and evangelical settings. But Selina also gestures toward another way — one rooted in embodied wisdom, communal discernment, and a God who shares power rather than hoards it. Following the interview, Nomad hosts Tim Nash and Joy Brooks reflect on their own encounters with unhealthy uses of power in church, the theologies that enabled it, and the green flags that might help us discern healthier communities. Interview starts at 15m 54s  Books, quotes, links → The creation of Nomad’s thoughtful, ad-free content is entirely funded by our equally thoughtful and wonderful listeners. By supporting us, you gain access to Nomad’s online spaces—like the Beloved Listener Lounge, Enneagram Lounge, and Book Club—as well as bonus episodes such as Nomad Contemplations, Therapeutic Reflections, and Nomad Revisited. If you’d like to join our lovely community of supporters, head over to our Patreon page. You might even be rewarded with a Nomad pen or our coveted Beloved Listener mug! If a monthly commitment isn’t possible right now, a one-off donation is always deeply appreciated—you can do that here. Looking to connect with others nearby? Check out the Listener Map or join our Nomad Gathering Facebook group. And if you're up for sharing your own story, we regularly post reflections from listeners on our blog—all with the hope of fostering deeper understanding, connection and supportive relationships. If you'd like to share your story on the blog, contact us for more information here.

Halima Gosai Hussein is the former chair of the Inclusive Mosque Initiative. Giles Goddard is an Anglican priest and author of Generous Faith. On paper, their backgrounds could hardly be more different. But their paths converged through a shared commitment to inclusion — Giles in the work of building an open and affirming church, Halima through her leadership with the Inclusive Mosque Initiative. In this conversation, they reflect on the faith they inherited, the shifts and struggles that reshaped it, and what it means to remain rooted while reimagining what faith can be. They speak with honesty about belonging and exclusion, the tensions of staying within a tradition that can wound, and the unexpected common ground they’ve found across theological, cultural, and historical divides. This episode is an invitation to eavesdrop on a rare kind of dialogue: one that isn’t about winning an argument or defending a position, but about curiosity, respect, and shared hope for a more loving, just, and spacious spiritual landscape. Conversation starts at 15m 19s.  This conversation was recorded at Morley Radio studio.  Books, quotes, links → The creation of Nomad’s thoughtful, ad-free content is entirely funded by our equally thoughtful and wonderful listeners. By supporting us, you gain access to Nomad’s online spaces—like the Beloved Listener Lounge, Enneagram Lounge, and Book Club—as well as bonus episodes such as Nomad Contemplations, Therapeutic Reflections, and Nomad Revisited. If you’d like to join our lovely community of supporters, head over to our Patreon page. You might even be rewarded with a Nomad pen or our coveted Beloved Listener mug! If a monthly commitment isn’t possible right now, a one-off donation is always deeply appreciated—you can do that here. Looking to connect with others nearby? Check out the Listener Map or join our Nomad Gathering Facebook group. And if you're up for sharing your own story, we regularly post reflections from listeners on our blog—all with the hope of fostering deeper understanding, connection and supportive relationships. If you'd like to share your story on the blog, contact us for more information here.

Brian McLaren, an influential author and public theologian, discusses his new novel, 'The Last Voyage.' He explores the spirituality at the brink of societal collapse and questions whether faith can endure without institutions. The conversation delves into surrender as wisdom, the fragility of the future, and how spiritual practices can shift to survival strategies. McLaren's insights on morality and the role of literature in navigating crises resonate deeply, offering a thoughtful perspective on hope amid despair and the environmental turmoil we face.

Kira Austin-Young, an Episcopal priest and author of 'Pro-Choice and Christian,' dives into the intricate relationship between faith and reproductive freedom. She addresses the silence surrounding abortion in progressive churches, emphasizing the need for compassion and moral complexity. The conversation critiques biblical interpretations and societal norms, urging a shift towards open dialogue and understanding. Additionally, the hosts reflect on their own experiences with grief and discernment, advocating for a more nuanced discourse on reproductive choices.

Richard Beck, a Professor of Psychology and author of 'The Shape of Joy', dives into how modern misery often comes from self-centered living. He emphasizes that true joy and mental well-being can emerge when we focus on others and the world around us. The discussion distinguishes between helpful introspection and destructive rumination while highlighting transformative spiritual practices. Beck also explores the profound impact of unconditional love and community on our mental health, urging listeners to embrace outward-oriented spirituality.

Join Joy Brooks, a therapist and former podcast host, as she delves into spiritual bypassing—how well-meaning beliefs can sometimes mask deep emotional pain. She shares her journey from charismatic Christianity and highlights the importance of confronting discomfort for genuine growth. Joy discusses how faith communities may unintentionally silence suffering and the emotional toll it can take. Emphasizing vulnerability, she explores how Christianity can offer resources for embracing the full spectrum of human experience.

Rowan Williams, the Former Archbishop of Canterbury and a distinguished theologian, delves into faith as a journey of attentiveness, rather than certainty. He contrasts genuine faith with toxic religion, highlighting trust as a core element. Rowan shares insights on appreciating Buddhism while remaining committed to Christianity, and discusses the dual nature of the Church—its beauty and cruelty. The conversation also touches on how contemplation influences spiritual perception, encouraging listeners to embrace the mystery of faith.

In this conversation, writer Lamorna Ash shares her transformative two-year immersion in Christianity, exploring everything from conservative Bible studies to silent Quaker retreats. Inspired by friends' sudden conversions, she discusses her quest to understand faith's complexities, the beauty of ancient rituals, and the tension of institutional beliefs. Lamorna's journey embodies tentative openness and a movement towards mystery, prompting a deeper reflection on personal spirituality and the evolving nature of faith.