Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership with Ruth Haley Barton

Marilyn McEntyre, an author and writing teacher known for exploring spirituality and language, joins Ruth to discuss the spiritual gifts of winter. They delve into the concept of inward reflection, grieving loss, and the transformative nature of dormancy. The conversation highlights the importance of letting go, being present in our current season, and embracing new beginnings. They also reflect on a poignant poem by Robert Hayden and share insights on how to navigate emotional challenges during darker periods of life.

Marilyn McEntyre, an author and writing coach known for intertwining spirituality and language, joins the conversation exploring winter's themes of vulnerability and longing. They discuss the necessity of moving beyond safety for spiritual growth, the challenges of climate change, and the importance of collective humility within church communities. Marilyn reads her poignant poem 'After the Fire,' reflecting on renewal through loss and the beauty found in vulnerability. Their insightful dialogue embraces the untameable aspects of life and spirituality.

Marilyn McIntyre, an author and former professor focused on spirituality and healing, joins the conversation to discuss the poignant topic of Blue Christmas services. They highlight the importance of acknowledging grief during the festive season and creating spaces for mourning. Marilyn draws parallels between spiritual dormancy and winter, emphasizing how growth often goes unseen. The dialogue explores how darkness enhances spiritual receptivity and how tender attention to grief can lead to healing and comfort during challenging times.

Join author Marilyn McEntyre, a former professor focused on language and spirituality, as she delves into the beauty of inward reflection during the Advent season. She and Ruth explore the significance of silence, the intertwining of winter and spirituality, and practical ways to embrace the contemplative aspects of this time. Themes of vulnerability, social justice, and the delicate balance of life on Earth stimulate thoughtful conversation. Marilyn offers simple practices to deepen your inward journey and connect with the season's quiet invitation.

In this engaging conversation, Jay Y. Kim, a pastor and author who explores faith in the digital age, joins Ruth to dive into how technology affects creativity and deep work. They distinguish between human creativity and AI, emphasizing the sacredness of creative processes. Jay shares insights on managing distractions and the importance of embracing boredom to enhance creativity. They discuss practical routines for focusing on deep work and encourage listeners to reflect on their unique gifts and how they can contribute meaningfully in a tech-driven world.

Jay Y. Kim, lead pastor at West Gate Church and author of Analog Church, joins to discuss how the digital age reshapes community within the church. They explore how the pandemic shifted gatherings online, changing attendance patterns and engagement. Jay emphasizes that while digital avenues can inform, true transformation comes from in-person experiences. They also examine the balance between content consumption and meaningful community, challenging listeners to consider barriers to participation and the essence of church beyond mere experience.

Discover the challenges of parenting in a digital age as hosts tackle the impact of technology on family dynamics. They discuss setting boundaries around device use and the societal risks of social media for teens. Hear insights on fostering empathy among parents and the importance of community support in navigating these pressures. The hosts share practical tips for low-tech family practices, while emphasizing the need for intentional Sabbath moments that create joy and connection. It's a thoughtful exploration of modern parenting dilemmas.

Ruth and Jay discuss how digital technology affects our attention spans and mental health. They reflect on the mental toll of constant news exposure and the need for intentionality to protect our inner peace. The conversation highlights attention as a valuable gift that needs stewardship against distractions. They explore the risks of multitasking and the psychological impacts of tech, while offering practical practices to reclaim focus. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their relationship with technology and assess its influence on their lives.

In this engaging discussion, Jay Y. Kim, the lead pastor at West Gate Church and author of the Digital Examen podcast, joins Ruth Haley Barton to unpack the relationship between technology and spiritual life. They explore the vital need for solitude and silence, especially amid digital distractions. Jay shares practical strategies like turning smartphones into 'dummy phones' to enhance focus. They also reflect on the challenges of digital addiction, emphasizing the importance of intentionality in creating clutter-free sacred spaces for a deeper connection with God.

Jay Y. Kim, lead pastor at West Gate Church and author, dives into the complex relationship between technology and spirituality. He shares emotional anecdotes from his family life in Silicon Valley, revealing technology's duality as both a facilitator and a barrier to connection. Ruth and Jay discuss how digital tools can impact spiritual practices and community engagement. They advocate for balancing tech use with meaningful, face-to-face interactions, setting the stage for a dynamic exploration of faith in the digital age.