PODCAST · religion
Liminal Living
by Dr. Thomas J Rundel
Welcome to the Liminal Living Podcast, where we dive deep into the realm of liminal spaces—those transitional phases where uncertainty is our companion. I'm your host and curator of conversations, Dr. Tom Rundel, and it's my pleasure to serve as your guide through these uncharted territories. With a doctoral background in spirituality and leadership from Portland Seminary, my research has centered on the spirituality found in the narratives of liminality in the Bible, but I have expanded my research to include other faith traditions and cognitive science. Since our launch in 2023, we've been dedicated to exploring the nuances of dark nights and deconstructions, but our journey expanded to include insights from a diverse array of modern-day thinkers and artists. Through a blend of stories, practices, and perspectives, we provide valuable guidance for fellow travelers navigating their own liminal spaces. So, join us as we embark on this journey and embrace the uncertainty in order to unc
Episodes
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164: Grand Theft Donkey: Palm Sunday Reflections
Episode Notes: Summary of Arguments 1. Palm Sunday is a political confrontation, not a celebration. Tom establishes the historical and cultural context: Jerusalem at Passover swelled from 30,000 to upward of 500,000 people. Rome, aware of the uprising potential, flooded the city with military...
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163: Tom Rundel: Power Has No God: The Raising of Lazarus
Jesus is a wanted man. He’s been run out of Jerusalem twice, nearly stoned to death, and is hiding in the wilderness when word arrives: your friend Lazarus is dying. What he does next—and how long he waits before doing it—will raise more questions than it answers. In this message from John 11…
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162: Tom Rundel: Jesus Performs and Unauthorized Miracle
Episode Summary Jesus heals a man born blind using mud and spit — a deliberate echo of Genesis 2 and a declaration that the sacred arrives through the physical, not despite it. But the miracle is almost beside the point. The real story is what happens next: a twenty-verse interrogation by the...
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161: Tom Rundel: Where is God When the System Fails You?
Follow the Drinking Gourd: A Map Encoded in Song Tom opens with his love of astronomy and the Big Dipper, tracing it to the African American folk song "Follow the Drinking Gourd" — a secret map taught to enslaved people escaping north on the Underground Railroad. The stars, the rivers, and the...
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160: Tom Rundel: Pretense is the Enemy of the Spiritual Life
In this conversation, Tom Rundel explores the deeper meanings and contexts surrounding the famous biblical verse John 3:16, discussing its historical significance, the character of Nicodemus, and the spiritual journey of understanding faith. He emphasizes the importance of context in scripture…
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159: Tom Rundel: The Devil Wears Vestments
In this conversation, Tom Rundel explores the significance of Lent as a time for spiritual recalibration and intentional practices. He emphasizes the importance of understanding hunger versus appetite, the experience of mortality through hunger, and the temptations faced by Jesus. The discussion...
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158: Tom Rundel: God Will Not Be Managed, Only Met
In this conversation, Tom Rundel reflects on Black History Month, focusing on the inspiring story of Ruby Bridges and her courage during the Civil Rights Movement. He discusses the significance of Norman Rockwell's painting, 'The Problem We All Live With,' and how it encapsulates the struggles...
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157: Tom Rundel: Christian Nationalism Can't Survive Matthew 5
In this conversation, Tom Rundel explores the profound teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing its counterintuitive nature and the challenges it presents to individuals across the Christian spectrum. He delves into the historical context of Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott,...
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156: Tom Rundel: The Light We Cannot See
In this conversation, Tom Rundel shares personal anecdotes and insights about the nature of light, the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, and the significance of the Beatitudes. He emphasizes the importance of understanding unseen forces that affect our lives, the transformative power...
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155: Tom Rundel: Speaking Truth to Power
This conversation explores the context of Jesus' beginning ministry, the nature of time, the role of prophets in society, ancient fishermen, and the call to solidarity and healing within communities. Tom Rundel shares personal fishing memories, transitions into discussing the serious nature of...
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154: Tom Rundel: The Lamb of God vs The Eagle of Rome
n this episode, Tom Rundel delves into the historical and theological significance of Pope Sergius I's refusal to conform to political pressures in the late seventh century, particularly regarding the phrase 'Lamb of God.' This pivotal moment in church history illustrates the tension between…
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153: Tom Rundel: Worship What You Have Burned. Burn What You Have Worshipped
In this conversation, Tom Rundel reflects on his journey from city life to a deeper understanding of faith, exploring themes of baptism, identity, and the call to repentance. He shares personal anecdotes and historical insights, particularly focusing on the significance of baptism as a...
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152: Tom Rundel: The Radical Theology of Incarnation
This conversation explores the life and theology of Julian of Norwich, a 14th-century mystic who lived through the Black Death. Tom Rundel discusses how Julian's experiences shaped her radical theology, emphasizing God's love and presence in suffering. The conversation also delves into the nature...
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151: Tom Rundel: The Political Tyranny of Herod the Great
summaryThis conversation explores the unique perspectives of the Gospels, particularly focusing on the historical context of the Hebrew people, the rise and rule of Herod the Great, and the implications of Jesus' birth in relation to Herod's tyranny. It delves into the narrative parallels between...
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150: Tom Rundel: Love is Not Sentiment
This reflection explores love as a disruptive, risky, and compassionate force revealed in the Advent story of Joseph and Mary. Rather than portraying love as perfection or rule-following, it shows how imperfect love—choosing mercy over fear and presence over withdrawal—is enough to bring God into...
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149: Tom Rundel: Peace is Not the Absence of Chaos
In this episode, Dr. Tom Rundel explores the themes of Advent, focusing on peace as a central concept. He reflects on personal experiences of chaos and stress, particularly during a planned power outage, and contrasts these with moments of genuine peace found in community service. The discussion...
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148: Tom Rundel: Joy is Not a Mood
He contrasts joy with happiness, emphasizing that joy is a deeper, more resilient state that can coexist with sorrow and is not dependent on circumstances. The discussion also delves into the historical context of apartheid in South Africa and how Tutu's joyful spirit served as a powerful form of...
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147: Tom Rundel: Toxic Positivity Vs Hope
In this episode, Tom Rundel explores the concept of hope versus toxic positivity, particularly within the context of Advent and the Christian faith. He discusses how hope is often misunderstood as mere optimism or positivity, and instead argues that true hope involves acknowledging reality and...
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146: Tom Rundel: God is Not an Idea
In this episode, Tom Rundel explores the meaning of Christ the King Sunday, the conclusion of the liturgical year, and uses Psalm 46 to challenge the common Western tendency to treat God as a mere idea rather than an embodied reality. Rundel unpacks the Psalmist’s imagery—refuge, river,...
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145: Bruce Epperly: Process, Peace, and the Planet. Healing the World
In this episode of Liminal Living, Tom Rundel welcomes theologian and author Bruce Epperly back for his third appearance to discuss his new book, Healing the World: Whitehead, Francis, Clare, and Bonaventure on Spiritual and Planetary Transformation. Their conversation flows through themes of…
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144: Kathy Khang: You Made it Weird, When Faith Divorces from Life
In this engaging conversation, Tom Rundel and Kathy Khang explore the complexities of faith, deconstruction, and the journey towards reimagining spirituality in a modern context. They discuss the importance of love, community, and the challenges of navigating conversations with differing...
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143: Chad Bahl: Beyond the Pitchfork: A Process Relational View of Demonic Evil
takeaways If a good God exists, why does suffering occur? We often attribute suffering to a greater good. The mystery of God's plan can be hard to understand. Tragedies like cancer and war challenge our beliefs. Supernaturalism becomes problematic when faced with evil. The death of children…
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142: Thomas Jay Oord: Why Prayer "Doesn't Work." Re-enchanting the World
Deconstruction is a journey many are experiencing. The dichotomy of natural and supernatural is outdated. Prayer should be seen as cooperation with God. God's omnipotence is often misunderstood. Selective miracles create distrust in God. Enchantment in the world is often overlooked. Philosophy…
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141: Andrew M Davis: Cosmological Humility, Living Between Science and Spirit
takeaways Philosophy begins in wonder and should cultivate it. The universe is not disenchanted; it is full of wonder. Science and spirituality can coexist and enrich each other. Values are perceived through our consciousness and are objective. Art and poetry play a crucial role in understanding...
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140: Anthony Smith: This Ain't Revival
Chapters Navigating Change: Personal and Professional Transitions The Political Landscape: Insights from Local Governance Reimagining God: Contrasting Views in Christianity The Kingdom of God: Understanding Its True Nature Revival or Division? The Current State of Christianity The Echoes of...
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139: Matt Tebbe: Reimagining God Beyond Empire Economics Pt 2 of 2
Being in nature and facing challenges is vital. Community support is essential during difficult times. Toxic positivity denies reality; genuine hope acknowledges pain. Pastors often feel powerless in a chaotic world. The need for pastoral care is mutual between pastor and congregation. Navigating...
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138: Matt Tebbe: Reimagining God Beyond Empire Economics: Pt 1
Being in nature and facing challenges is vital. Community support is essential during difficult times. Toxic positivity denies reality; genuine hope acknowledges pain. Pastors often feel powerless in a chaotic world. The need for pastoral care is mutual between pastor and congregation. Navigating...
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137: Tori Owens & Jonathan Foster: Rooting God in the Human Experience
takeaways Tori Owens and Jonathan Foster discuss their experiences with open and relational theology. The definition of love is explored as a non-violent, non-scapegoating energy. Personal stories play a crucial role in understanding authority within the church. God assumptions can shape our...
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136: Matt Alexander: Reimagining God After Burnout
takeaways Ministry leadership is inherently difficult and often leads to burnout. Burnout can stem from vocational disappointment and unmet expectations. Relational injuries within ministry contexts are common and can be deeply impactful. Pastors often neglect their emotional health, leading to...
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135: Josh Patterson: From Deconstruction to Re-Enchantment
takeaways Josh Patterson discusses his recent exploration of radical theology. The conversation highlights the importance of ongoing education through podcasts. Tom Rundel reflects on the evolution of his own theological perspectives. The hosts discuss the need for re-enchantment in a...
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134a: Let Love Rule: Song Only
Tom Rundel and Jeremie Wilson conclude their Summer Songs of Resistance series with a cover of Lenny Kravitz's Let Love Rule Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off) Kineo Center:...
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134: Summer Songs of Resistance Pt 10
takeaways Music serves as a powerful tool for social change. The influence of U2 has shaped contemporary worship music. Songwriting often reflects personal and societal struggles. Love is portrayed as the most powerful force in the universe. Escapism in music can provide solace in difficult…
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133a: Subterranean Homesick Alien: Song Only
Tom Rundel and Jeremie Wilson continue their Summer Songs of Resistance series with a cover of Radio Head's Subterranean Homesick Alien Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off) Kineo Center:...
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133: Summer Songs of Resistance Pt 9
takeaways Music serves as a powerful tool for social change. The influence of U2 has shaped contemporary worship music. Songwriting often reflects personal and societal struggles. Love is portrayed as the most powerful force in the universe. Escapism in music can provide solace in difficult…
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132a: What Are We Afraid Of: Song Only
Tom Rundel and Jeremie Wilson continue their Summer Songs of Resistance series with a cover of an original tune Jeremie Wrote. Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off) Kineo Center:...
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132: Summer Songs of Resistance Pt 8
takeaways Music serves as a powerful tool for social change. The influence of U2 has shaped contemporary worship music. Songwriting often reflects personal and societal struggles. Love is portrayed as the most powerful force in the universe. Escapism in music can provide solace in difficult…
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131a: Running to Stand Still: Song Only
Tom Rundel and Jeremie Wilson continue their Summer Songs of Resistance series with a cover of U2's Running to Stand Still Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off) Kineo Center:...
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131: Summer Songs of Resistance Pt 7
takeaways Music serves as a powerful tool for social change. The influence of U2 has shaped contemporary worship music. Songwriting often reflects personal and societal struggles. Love is portrayed as the most powerful force in the universe. Escapism in music can provide solace in difficult…
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130: Brian McLaren: Reimagining God for the Modern World
Check out Brian's work here: https://brianmclaren.net/ Order his new Book here: https://brianmclaren.net/the-last-voyage-my-new-sci-fi-novel/ Check out his podcast here: https://cac.org/podcast/learning-how-to-see/?fbclid=IwAR2F2SM7RopzGuelD8HOshRFUCxhf9yg0wT9wz6lKWRSy9S6IO0Jnz2DX80 Takeaways…
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129a: Freedom: Song Only
to listen to the full episode with commentary please check out episode 129 Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off) Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100...
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129: Summer Songs of Resistance Pt 6
The importance of family and personal experiences in shaping perspectives. The Isle Royale experience serves as a metaphor for disconnecting from chaos. Moderate voices in faith often face backlash for political engagement. Wisdom requires challenging one's own beliefs regularly. The prophetic...
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128a: How Come: Song Only
To listen to the full episode and hear the commentary around this song, please listen to episode 128 Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off) Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention…
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128: Summer Songs of Resistance Pt 5
The importance of family and personal experiences in shaping perspectives. The Isle Royale experience serves as a metaphor for disconnecting from chaos. Moderate voices in faith often face backlash for political engagement. Wisdom requires challenging one's own beliefs regularly. The prophetic...
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127: Summer Songs of Resistance Pt 4
takeaways The importance of family and personal experiences in shaping perspectives. The Isle Royale experience serves as a metaphor for disconnecting from chaos. Moderate voices in faith often face backlash for political engagement. Wisdom requires challenging one's own beliefs regularly. The...
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127a: One Seven Six Song Only
To listen to the full episode and hear the commentary around this song, listen to episode 127 Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off) Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in...
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126: Summer Songs of Resistance Pt 3
In this conversation, we continue our Summer Songs of Resistance series with Tom Rundel and Jeremie Wilson talking about the role of music as a form of resistance and social commentary. They explore the importance of local action in the face of overwhelming national issues, the need for honest...
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126a: For What It's Worth: Song Only
To listen to the full episode and hear the commentary around this song, listen to episode 1256 Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off) Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in...
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125: Summer Songs of Resistance Pt 2
In this conversation, we continue our Summer Songs of Resistance series with Tom Rundel and Jeremie Wilson talking about the role of music as a form of resistance and social commentary. They explore the importance of local action in the face of overwhelming national issues, the need for honest...
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125a: Fly Like an Eagle: Song Only
To listen to the full episode and hear the commentary around this song, listen to episode 125. Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off) Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in...
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124: Summer Songs of Resistance Pt 1
Chapters Introduction and Technical Setup Localizing Action and Finding Empowerment The Role of Music in Social Commentary Songwriting as a Call to Action Reflections on Lyrics and Social Issues Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to the Liminal Living Podcast, where we dive deep into the realm of liminal spaces—those transitional phases where uncertainty is our companion. I'm your host and curator of conversations, Dr. Tom Rundel, and it's my pleasure to serve as your guide through these uncharted territories. With a doctoral background in spirituality and leadership from Portland Seminary, my research has centered on the spirituality found in the narratives of liminality in the Bible, but I have expanded my research to include other faith traditions and cognitive science. Since our launch in 2023, we've been dedicated to exploring the nuances of dark nights and deconstructions, but our journey expanded to include insights from a diverse array of modern-day thinkers and artists. Through a blend of stories, practices, and perspectives, we provide valuable guidance for fellow travelers navigating their own liminal spaces. So, join us as we embark on this journey and embrace the uncertainty in order to unc
HOSTED BY
Dr. Thomas J Rundel
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How many episodes does Liminal Living have?
Liminal Living currently has 180 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Liminal Living about?
Welcome to the Liminal Living Podcast, where we dive deep into the realm of liminal spaces—those transitional phases where uncertainty is our companion. I'm your host and curator of conversations, Dr. Tom Rundel, and it's my pleasure to serve as your guide through these uncharted territories. With...
How often does Liminal Living release new episodes?
Liminal Living publishes regularly with 180 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
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You can listen to Liminal Living on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Liminal Living?
Liminal Living is created and hosted by Dr. Thomas J Rundel.
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