Spiritual Misfits Podcast

About This Series Over six weeks, we're sharing keynote talks and discussions from the second Future Church Conference, held at the Tram Sheds in Glebe. This gathering brought together church leaders, pastors, and Jesus-followers passionate about creating safer, more inclusive faith communities.Whether you're leading church, leaving church, unsure about the whole thing, or just curious about what the future might hold, these conversations explore what it means to reimagine church for everyone.Conference Posture Future Church Conference invited participants to adopt three key postures:Lean in - Sit with discomfort and ask why certain ideas trigger usListen - Hear vulnerable ideas from speakers and connect with each otherLook forward - Focus on future possibilities rather than past woundsWhat You'll Hear in This Episode: Shane Clifton shares his story and reflections on whether the Church has a future, and what kind it could beAbout the Speaker: Shane Clifton is Associate Professor of Practice in the School of health sciences at the University of Sydney, on the leadership team at the Centre for Disability Research and Policy. Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we’d love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

About This Series Over six weeks, we're sharing keynote talks and discussions from the second Future Church Conference, held at the Tram Sheds in Glebe. This gathering brought together church leaders, pastors, and Jesus-followers passionate about creating safer, more inclusive faith communities.Whether you're leading church, leaving church, unsure about the whole thing, or just curious about what the future might hold, these conversations explore what it means to reimagine church for everyone.Conference Posture Future Church Conference invited participants to adopt three key postures:Lean in - Sit with discomfort and ask why certain ideas trigger usListen - Hear vulnerable ideas from speakers and connect with each otherLook forward - Focus on future possibilities rather than past woundsWhat You'll Hear in This Episode:Opening welcome from Joel Hollier, on behalf of the Future Church teamAcknowledgement of Country from Mikenzie Ling (Wiradjuri woman, Uniting Church First Nations Strategy and Engagement Consultant)Keynote from Gershon Nimbalker exploring the church's historical DNA of caring for the poorAbout the Speaker: Gershon Nimbalker is National Director of Common Grace, a movement of Christians passionate about justice. He traces how caring for the poor was central to church identity throughout history and challenges both conservative and progressive Christians to reclaim this calling.Learn more about Common Grace: https://www.commongrace.org.au/Learn more about Future Church Conference: https://futurechurchcon.com/Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we’d love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this episode of Spiritual Misfits, Will Small continues his "Reclaiming the Language" series with Karina Kreminski, exploring whether the word "mission" is still helpful for progressive Christians or too entangled with colonising mindsets. Karina shares her journey of integrating missiology and mysticism. Together they explore how mystical practices might offer a more humble, attentive approach to engaging with the world that transforms both traditional understandings of mission and ourselves.In This EpisodeThe tensions and problematic history associated with the word "mission"Why Karina chooses to "qualify rather than abandon" mission languageThe concept of "mission in reverse" and mutual transformationHow mysticism provides a framework for encountering "that which is beyond" in everyday lifePractical approaches to ordinary mysticism through paying attention and slowing downThe challenges of maintaining spiritual practices in our distraction-filled digital ageHow small, courageous acts might be our path to meaningful change"The one thing that's been consistent is I've always believed in that which is beyond." - Karina Kreminski About Karina KreminskiKarina Kreminski works for Uniting Mission and Education and is the co-founder (along with her husband Armen Gakavian) of At the Edges Publishing, a community dedicated to nurturing emerging Australian writers. She is passionate about Fresh Expressions of church and finding the sacred in everyday life. Karina is currently working on a new book about ordinary mysticism, following her previous work "Urban Spirituality: Embodying God's Mission in the Neighbourhood."Resources Mentioned"How to Do Nothing" - Jenny Odell"Stolen Focus" by Johann HariThe Light Phone - A minimalist phone designed to reduce digital distractionCentring Prayer practice as taught by Thomas KeatingAt the Edges Publishing - https://www.attheedges.com.au/Fresh Expressions - https://www.nswact.uca.org.au/resources/fresh-expressions/Connect with KarinaInstagram: @karinakreminskiSubstack: https://substack.com/@karinakreminskiWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we’d love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

What happens when women speak up about gender inequality in Christian spaces? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Tracy McEwan, Dr. Rosie Clare Shorter, and Dr. Tanya Riches discuss their research on "feminist complaint collectives" across Catholic, Anglican, and Pentecostal traditions. Drawing on Sara Ahmed's work, they explore how women who raise concerns about sexism often "become the problem" in religious institutions, and how forming collectives can create pathways for change. From historical examples to contemporary activism, this episode offers insights for anyone navigating the complex intersection of faith and feminism.Guests:Dr. Tracy McEwan is a theologian and sociologist of religion at the University of Newcastle and co-facilitates the Australian Women Preach podcast.Dr. Rosie Clare Shorter teaches gender studies at the University of Melbourne and is a research fellow at Deakin University.Dr. Tanya Riches is the director of the Master of Transformation and Development degree at Eastern College Australia.Resources mentioned:"Feminist Complaint Collectives and Doorway Disruptions in Australian Christian Traditions" - the research paper discussed in the episodeSara Ahmed's book "Complaint!" and "The Feminist Killjoy Handbook"The Movement for the Ordination of Women (MOW)Australian Women Preach podcastWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we’d love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this powerful conversation, Will Small sits down with Andrew Dodd and Scott Higgins from Hamilton Baptist Church following their historic disaffiliation from the NSW/ACT Baptist Association after 99 years of membership (the first time this has happened in the 150+ year history of the Association).After a six-year bureaucratic process, Hamilton Baptist and Canberra Baptist were formally removed from the Association for their affirming stance toward LGBTQ+ people. Andrew and Scott share the painful journey that led to this moment, the flawed process that never allowed for actual biblical discussion, and the surprising hope they've found in what they're calling "Day One" of a new chapter.In this episode:The six-year process that led to the disaffiliation voteHow real relationships with LGBTQ+ Christians transformed their theologyThe irony of a Baptist denomination refusing to discuss biblical interpretationThe powerful speeches Andrew and Scott delivered at the final assemblyThe emerging network of Open Baptists creating new possibilitiesLinks:Open Baptists websitePrevious Spiritual Misfits episodes with Hamilton Baptist (Part 1)Previous Spiritual Misfits episodes with Hamilton Baptist (Part 2)Previous Spiritual Misfits episode about the Open Baptists (with Christine Redwood, Belinda Groves and Nathan Nettleton)Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we’d love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this illuminating conversation, Will Small speaks with Jana Holland, founder of Celu Selah Wellness, about the powerful intersection of neuroscience, spirituality, and somatic healing. In this episode:Jana shares her fascinating backstory of traveling as a nomadic folk family band through 26 countries over 12 years, and how this experience shaped her understanding of spiritual connectionThe meaning behind "Celu Selah" - combining words for "heaven/wholeness" and "to pause/rest"How encountering people from different spiritual traditions helped Jana recognize her "spiritual mother tongue" while opening her to the beauty of other spiritual languagesThe science behind heart coherence and how our bodies communicate wisdom beyond what our minds can processUnderstanding polyvagal theory and how our nervous systems are constantly seeking safety and connectionThe groundbreaking research in neurotheology showing how spiritual practices activate specific areas of the brain, offering neuroprotective benefitsThe difference between being "religious but not spiritual" versus having an authentic spiritual practicePractical ways to incorporate embodied spiritual awareness into everyday activitiesHow trauma can disconnect us from our bodies and how somatic practices can help restore wholenessThe concept of "super-regulation" - accessing spiritual awareness through our neurological "docking station"Jana offers a compassionate framework for those who may feel like misfits in traditional religious spaces but still long for authentic spiritual connection. Her integration of cutting-edge neuroscience with contemplative practices provides a path toward wholeness that honors both ancient wisdom and modern understanding.About Jana Holland:Jana Holland is the founder of Celu Selah, a wellness practice dedicated to fostering emotional and spiritual well-being. As a Spiritual Director and Somatic Coach, she has spent two decades exploring the intersection of neuroscience, spirituality, and somatics. Her approach is deeply rooted in the Way of Yeshua while embracing an open, compassionate stance toward diverse spiritual paths. Jana supports individuals in seasons of awakening, transition, disappointment, or grief, providing a space to explore, heal, connect, and rediscover purpose.Connect with Jana:Website: www.celuselah.com Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we’d love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this episode of Spiritual Misfits, Will Small interviews Robyn Whitaker, a biblical scholar specialising in the Book of Revelation. They discuss Robyn's journey of faith, her experiences as a spiritual misfit, and the relevance of apocalyptic literature in today's world. The conversation delves into the political implications of Revelation, the nature of divine violence, and the hopeful imagery found in the final chapters of the text. Robyn emphasises the importance of understanding Revelation as a critique of power and injustice, rather than a tool for justifying violence. They also touch on the significance of a hermeneutic of love, the creative engagement of scripture by figures like Jesus and Paul, and the challenges of introducing children to biblical stories in a way that is life-giving and positive. Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we’d love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this special Easter episode, Will Small and Mitch Forbes explore the meaning of Jesus' death and resurrection beyond traditional frameworks. They discuss alternative understandings of atonement, René Girard's scapegoat theory, and how the Easter story reveals God's non-violent love rather than divine wrath.Key Topics:Rethinking traditional atonement theoriesThe problem with viewing God as wrathful and violentRené Girard's theories on mimetic desire, rivalry, and scapegoatingHow the cross exposes human violence rather than divine violenceFinding life-giving ways to understand Jesus' death and resurrectionResources Mentioned:James Alison's "Jesus the Forgiving Victim"James Cone's "The Cross and the Lynching Tree"Brian Zahnd's "The Wood Between the Worlds"Thomas Merton's writingsRené Girard's work on mimetic theoryWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we’d love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

 In this thought-provoking episode Will Small welcomes back Karl Hand to explore the often misunderstood concepts of sin and grace. As part of our series examining challenging theological concepts, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on terms that have sometimes been weaponised against marginalised communities.About Karl HandKarl Hand is a pastor with the Metropolitan Community Church and recently began working with the Australian Student Christian Movement, helping to revitalise campus ministry. With his background in theology and experience ministering primarily to LGBTQIA+ communities, Karl brings unique insights to these complex topics.Key Themes ExploredReclaiming the Language of SinKarl discusses how the word "sin" has been traumatic for many, especially in queer communities, where it's been used to shame and exclude. Yet rather than abandoning the term, he suggests reclaiming it—similar to how the word "queer" has been reclaimed—to access its transformative power when properly understood.Beyond "Crime and Punishment"The conversation traces how our understanding of sin has been shaped by Augustinian theology and mistranslations that frame sin as a crime demanding divine punishment. Karl offers alternative frameworks from theologians like Irenaeus, who viewed sin more as an interruption in our journey toward becoming who we're meant to be.Sin as SeparationRather than viewing sin as primarily about rule-breaking, Karl suggests understanding sin as "anything that comes between us and God." This reframing helps us see sin as exile or separation rather than as moral failure requiring punishment.The Relationship Between Sin and GraceKarl shares his personal experience of grace at age 13, describing how the recognition of sin created space for transformation. "If there's nothing wrong with where I'm at now, then I don't feel the need to cling onto grace quite as much," he explains, highlighting how sin and grace work together in our spiritual journey.Collective Sin and RepentanceThe conversation explores how sin operates not just individually but collectively through systems, structures, and intergenerational patterns. Karl points to global political movements and social injustices as evidence of our deep interconnectedness and shared responsibility.Queer Theology's GiftsKarl highlights how queer theology offers valuable perspectives on sin and grace, including the reclamation of pride as a virtue rather than a sin, the importance of hybrid identities, and the power of collective liberation.Recommended Reading:Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we’d love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this episode, Will talks with Kevin Sweeney about his new book "The Cosmic Christ and the Concrete Jesus: Mystics, the Black Prophetic Tradition, and Why I'm Still a Christian."Kevin shares how the mystics gave him the Cosmic Christ, while the Black prophetic tradition offered him the Concrete Jesus. Together, these traditions help us embrace both the universal presence of divine love and the urgent call to justice and liberation.Key Topics Covered:The difference between experiencing Christ and just believing in JesusHow the Black prophetic tradition reveals Jesus as both liberator and threat to empireWhy being "safe" in Christ allows us to become "dangerous" to injusticeThe transition from pastoring to hospice chaplaincyWhy unity with Christ transcends religious boundariesThe Cosmic Christ and the Concrete Jesus is out on May 6th. Follow Kevin Sweeney for updates. Connect with Kevin:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevinsweeneynow/Website: https://www.kevinsweeneynow.com/Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we’d love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com