Faith Matters

Elizabeth Oldfield, a writer and host of the podcast 'Sacred,' shares her journey from skepticism to faith after a profound prayer experience. She navigates the complexities of the seven deadly sins, portraying them not as burdens but as guides for fostering compassion. Elizabeth delves into the lessons envy teaches about self-identity in the social media age and redefines sloth as a distraction from meaningful engagement. Ultimately, she emphasizes the importance of community and relationships in living fully alive, rooted in love and connection.

Brian McLaren, author of 'Life after Doom: Wisdom and Courage for a World Falling Apart', challenges traditional views on end times, empowers listeners to face fear and uncertainty, explores the relationship between hope and deception, discusses religion as a driver for positive change, and shares personal narratives on transformation and connection in challenging times.

A conversation with Astrid Tuminez, President of Utah Valley University, explores her journey from the Philippines to the US, her Catholic upbringing, conversion to Mormonism, and incorporation of Buddhism. Topics include staying connected to the church community, navigating faith in young adulthood, and finding belonging while embracing personal beliefs.

Therapist and podcaster Valerie Hamaker discusses faith evolution, complexity in relationships, and overcoming fear-inducing theology. Insightful exploration of navigating faith transitions, parenting challenges, and supporting loved ones' diverse spiritual paths.

Esteemed author and Institute teacher Michael Wilcox shares wisdom on embracing the marginalized, promoting acceptance over judgment, and seeking truth in conversations. He emphasizes compassion, forgiveness, and respect for all, advocating for inclusivity and understanding in building a more compassionate community.

Michael Wilcox shares a compelling narrative about his father's life as a gay LDS man in the mid-20th century. The story delves into family struggles, acceptance, and the release from judgment. It highlights love without agendas and the celestial nature of relationships. The podcast explores themes of devotion, personal struggles, forgiveness, and embracing love. It emphasizes the importance of letting go of judgment and focusing on acceptance for transformative experiences.

Rabbi Sharon Brous, author of 'The Amen Effect', discusses the importance of deep connections and solidarity in healing communities. She shares personal stories and practical advice on building relationships, exploring creation stories, the practice of presence in grief, agenda-less love, the power of prayer, angels among us, and the meaning of rituals in religious settings.

Eboo Patel, founder of Interfaith America, discusses embracing religious diversity, promoting interfaith cooperation, and the benefits of religious pluralism in refugee resettlement. The conversation highlights the importance of building bridges across beliefs for a harmonious world.

Neylan McBaine and Bethany Brady Spalding discuss the future of women in the church, addressing social issues, patriarchal structures, and the evolving role of women. They explore tensions, spiritual gifts, empowering women, theological doctrines versus practices, and the importance of unity in religious beliefs.

Bob Rees, a seasoned Latter-day Saint scholar, shares his deep love for the Book of Mormon, emphasizing the power of its message of love. He discusses imaginative ways to engage with scripture, such as through midrash, and highlights the importance of allowing the text to transform us. Bob's insights on the Book of Mormon's literary value and his efforts in combating child malnutrition globally make for a fascinating and inspiring conversation.