The Sacred

What happens after winning Bake Off? Jasmine Mitchell joins us to talk about perfectionism, alopecia, self-image, and learning to be fully yourself in a world obsessed with image.Jasmine reflects on growing up in a home shaped by hospitality, losing her hair as a teenager, learning to let go of perfection, and the unexpected journey that took her from medical school to winning British Bake Off 2025.Elizabeth Oldfield and Jasmine explore:• Why “go slow” became Jasmine’s grounding philosophy• Her journey with alopecia and being fully seen• Reality TV, public image and is Bake Off different from the rest?• Why hospitality and shared meals matter so deeply--🎙️Listen to The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡Produced by Theos Think Tank: www.theosthinktank.co.uk/👉 Follow Jasmine: https://www.instagram.com/jasmine.mitchell/tagged/?hl=en

The world wasn’t built for everyone. Leah Libresco Sargeant on feminism, care, and the myth of the “neutral” human.Join our community of people listening curiously to different perspectives: https://www.youtube.com/@thesacredpodcast/videos Leah has spent her life following philosophy to its limits, from Kantian questions of moral truth to reckoning with human vulnerability. Her journey reveals what happens when the world is built for a ‘neutral human’ - and who it leaves behind. This conversation explores feminism, gender difference, care, and what it really means to take morality seriously. Leah is the writer of Dignity of Dependence, works in of family policy and is the host of Other Feminisms on Substack.--✍️ Find us on Substack: https://thesacredpodcast.substack.com/?utm_campaign=profile_chips📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by Theos Think Tank: www.theosthinktank.co.uk/👉Check out Leah's substack: https://www.otherfeminisms.com/

What actually shapes the life you’re living - your own choices, or the ones you inherited?In this episode of The Sacred, we are with Dr Rangan Chatterjee exploring the moments that force our values to the surface - births, deaths and major life events - and how they can reset the direction of our lives.An Indian immigrant doctor, his father worked relentlessly to give his family opportunities — but it also came at a cost and contributed to the illness that ended his career and eventually his life. This left Dr Rangan with the question 'Dad, was it worth it?"This conversation opens up topics that many of us choose to avoid:• Workaholism and the drive for more• What it really means to define “success” for yourself • What it takes to consciously choose what we carry forward from our parentsDr Rangan Chatterjee is a former GP, bestselling author and one of the UK’s most recognisable voices on a holistic approach to health.--🎙️Listen to The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast\ 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡Produced by Theos Think Tank: www.theosthinktank.co.uk/👉 Check out Dr Rangan's podcast, Feel Better Live More: https://drchatterjee.com/podcast-epis...Chapters:00:00 Intro00:50 What is Sacred to You? Dr. Rangan Chatterjee answers1:31 Staying connected to family roots2:09 Career sacrifices and setting boundaries5:14 Being non-judgmental around boundaries6:23 Understanding empathy from a most-wanted criminal 9:11 Everyone's story makes sense12:06 Indian upbringing vs western culture at school13:41 Integrating eastern values into modern life15:35 Teaching respect and kindness to children17:29 Father's work ethic and health impact19:41 "Was it worth it?"22:29 Recognising overworking and knowing what is enough24:51 Surprising personal interests and finding joy27:30 Spiritual awakening, introspection and personal growth29:19 Whose life are you leading?33:39 Are you religious?36:23 Responding to negative comments with kindness39:56 Meaningful living and the importance of relationships, humour, and beliefKeywords:values, grief and growth, redefining success, what is enough, living with intention, family and sacrifice, work life balance, burnout and overwork, meaning of life, personal growth, self reflection, life purpose, inner work, emotional wellbeing, mental health, lifestyle medicine, holistic health, parenting and values, legacy and inheritance, immigrant family story, identity and belonging, cultural identity, compassion and empathy, curiosity over judgment, relationships and connection, modern life stress, slowing down, presence and mindfulness, gratitude practice, life transitions, dealing with loss, grief and clarity, success vs happiness, redefining ambition, work ethic rethink, conscious living, self awareness, asking better questions, deep conversations, philosophy of life, spirituality and meaning, living authentically, personal values, making better choices, life design, happiness and contentment, avoiding burnout, healing generational patterns, carrying forward what matters

We spoke to Stig Abell on how to live if nothing is ultimately sacred. Elizabeth Oldfield and Stig explore detective fiction and our longing for justice, the consolations of books in an age of infinite scroll, the quiet crises many of us are living through, and whether “muddling along” might be the most honest way live. This is a conversation about meaning and what remains when you’re not sure there is any.We talk about:• Why Stig feels more profane than sacred• Books as portals out of panic• Detective fiction and our longing for resolution• The exhausting, competitive condition of modern life---🎙️Listen to The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡Produced by Theos Think Tank: www.theosthinktank.co.uk/👉 Check out Stig’s work: https://www.instagram.com/thestigabell/?hl=enChapters:00:00 Intro01:28 What is Sacred to You? Stig Abell Answers02:48 Questioning the Concept of the Sacred04:32 Suspicion of Institutions and Freedom in Randomness06:13 The Principles of Fairness and Kindness08:56 Work ethics, Loughborough roots, and the story behind “Stig"12:11 Reading and the Pre-internet childhood14:35 Reading as Empathy and Sacred Practice15:58 The Nature of Doubt and Certainty17:42 Evolution, Randomness, and Meaning Without Agency19:59 Do “holy” moments require God?23:54 The Press and Public Appetite For Bad News29:56 Navigating the Complexities of Journalism32:02 Navigating the Media Landscape36:05 Being unboxable, tribal politics, and scepticism as a way of life37:58 Highbrow, Lowbrow, and the Freedom to Read Widely39:32 Imposter Syndrome and Self-Perception43:17 The Comfort of Genre Fiction46:42 The Search for Justice in Storytelling49:24 The Human Need for Narrative54:03 The Crisis of Modern Existence56:41 Quiet Struggles and the Fear of Being Useless58:51 Recognising Flaws in Ourselves and OthersKeywords:A wide-ranging conversation with Stig Abell on doubt, belief, meaning, secularism, faith and scepticism, fairness and kindness, journalism and media ethics, detective fiction and crime novels, books and reading as refuge, panic attacks and anxiety, modern life and burnout, human rights and Christianity’s cultural legacy, tribalism and political identity, institutions and individual conscience, and how to live well - or at least muddle through - in an age of uncertainty and infinite scroll.

In this episode, Elizabeth Oldfield is joined by political theorist and author Sophie Lewis to explore one of the most provocative ideas: the abolition of the family.Reflecting on her own complicated adolescence, Sophie asks what it would mean to reorganise society around love and collective care rather than accumulation?Drawing on her book, Abolish the Family, Sophie argues that the nuclear family carries impossible burdens in a capitalist society - privatising care, exhausting women, and quietly treating children as property. Could we imagine a world where love, care, and kinship extend beyond the walls of the nuclear family?Together, they talk about:• Why “utopia” is a practice, not a destination• The hidden labour inside the private household• Surrogacy, reproduction and the myth of “unassisted” motherhood• Are autonomy and care are opposites, or inseparable?• Jesus’ radical redefinition of family and the overlap between Christianity and communism• What Sophie really means by abolition---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 👉 Check out Sophie Lewis' work: https://www.instagram.com/reproutopia/?hl=en--Chapters:00:00 Intro01:30 What is Sacred to you? Sophie Lewis answers12:15 - Sophie’s complex family history and personal struggles17:08 - Educational journey and radicalisation at university 20:28 - The meaning of utopia as a non-attachment process 24:22 - Connections between faith, love, and collective action 31:42 - Dissecting the concept of "Full Surrogacy Now" 36:39 - The biological myths around kinship and their political implications 43:46 - The paradox of abolition47:01 - Abolishing slavery through a radical reimagining of humanism 50:04 - Redefining family and kinship beyond blood ties 58:37 - How revolutionary care structures could have supported Sophie’s mother 60:45 - Sophie’s dedication to collective love and care as sacred practices 65:55 - The importance of shared purpose, synchronised action, and communityKeywords:Sophie Lewis interview, abolish the family, radical feminist theory, Marxist feminism, political theory podcast, communisation of care, collective care, kinship networks, utopian thinking, libertarian communism, red love, family abolition, post-capitalist society, rethinking family, surrogacy ethics, gestational labor, parenthood and care, children belong to all of us, abolitionist thought, freedom and care, communal living, shared responsibility, parenting in modern society, radical theory for everyday life, anti-capitalist ideas, feminist politics, climate activism and radical thought, human geography theory, political philosophy podcast, queer runaway experiences, care as politics, social justice ideas, ethical community building, friendship as radical practice, collective freedom, family and society, abolitionist feminism, pregnancy and labor politics, communal childcare, mutual aid networks, parenting beyond the nuclear family, utopian visions, practical radicalism, human interconnection, radical love, ethics of kinship, parenting as shared labor, post-nuclear family ideas, political critique of capitalism, community-centered society, love and autonomy, humanism and care, social reproduction theory, feminist philosophy, radical theory conversation, future of family, abolitionist imagination

In this episode of The Sacred, Elizabeth Oldfield is joined by Jo Colman - great-great-great grandchild of the founder of Colman’s Mustard and now Chief Mint Officer of the family business, Summerdown - to explore a radically different story about generational wealth, power, business and belonging.Jo reflects on growing up with deep security and love, how that shaped his sense of responsibility, and why privilege doesn’t have to turn inward into status-seeking, but can instead become a platform for risk, generosity and service.Together, they talk about:• How power and privilege can be redirected outward rather than hoarded• Why Jo once rejected signet rings and why he now wears one• Building ethical, regenerative businesses that add value instead of extracting it• Adoption, family-making, and the real cost of inclusion• How to build families, institutions and communities that can truly hold human complexityThis is a conversation about the kind of wealth that doesn’t shrink the soul.--🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 👉 Check out Summerdown: https://summerdown.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorjZKbSVC3rIhS42z-aqIhQWmr_CuCGtz24hUSKbzOuu8Lh_H-w--Chapters00:00 Intro01:07 What is Sacred to You? Jo Colman answers03:02 Staying Present in Parenting05:49 Hope vs. Optimism: Embracing Life’s Paradoxes12:14 Wealth as Formation: Privilege and Responsibility15:14 Building a Regenerative, Ethical Business31:26 Creativity, Purpose, and Social Responsibility32:22 Our Adoption Journey35:33 Training and Preparation for Adoptive Parenting37:44 Parenting Adopted Children: Real Challenges39:57 Trauma, Healing, and the Power of Love45:31 Bureaucracy and the Adoption Process47:35 Understanding the Stories of Biological Families50:09 Adoption as Plan B: A Broader Perspective51:53 Small-A Anarchism and Community Engagement55:31 Listening, Assumptions, and Understanding Adoption58:02 Slowing down in parentingKeywords:Jo Colman, Colman Mustard, Summerdown Mint, generational wealth, inheritance, privilege for good, ethical entrepreneurship, conscious capitalism, regenerative business, sustainable business, business with purpose, using wealth responsibly, family beyond blood, adoption stories, adoptive parenting, building family, radical generosity, love as action, belonging, human complexity, non-anxious presence, prophetic imagination, spiritual formation, formation through faith, stewardship of privilege, power and responsibility, ethical leadership, business for impact, social impact business, purposeful life, vocation and calling, family-making as vocation, living ethically, hope versus optimism, accompaniment, relational leadership, intentional parenting, high-needs adoption, inclusive families, inclusive communities, societal change, moral courage, compassionate leadership, human flourishing, social responsibility, giving back, life of service, risk for good, cultivating resilience, forming community, transformative love, radical hospitality

Elizabeth Neumann, a former senior official in the Trump Administration, reflects on why she felt called to serve, what she witnessed from inside government, and how her commitment to integrity ultimately led her to step away.In this conversation, she and Elizabeth Oldfield reflect on how extremism takes root, the role of integrity in polarised times, and why love, accountability, and formation matter more than outrage or power.Key moments:- Why Elizabeth Neumann worked in the Trump administration - and why she left- The difference between loyalty, obedience, and integrity- How fear drives polarisation and extremism- What 911 on January 6th revealed about institutional fragility- Why love is not soft, but essential for violence prevention- The cost of truth-telling inside communities you care aboutChapters00:00 Trailer00:32 Intro01:21 What is sacred to you? Elizabeth Neumann answers03:34 Values in Hard Decision Making 08:47 Growing Up in the Bible Belt 14:06 Understanding Extremism and Fear 18:31 The Shift in Political Narratives 27:21 The Impact of 9/11 on National Security 32:02 The Psychological Drivers of Extremism 41:51 The Role of Love in Community Resilience 48:09 Navigating Political Loyalty in the Trump Administration 53:26 The January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol 01:00:18 Speaking Out Against Extremism 01:05:48 Engaging with Those at Risk of RadicalisationKeywords:John Kelly, Christian extremism, Bush, Trump, political extremism in America, faith and politics, Elizabeth Neumann interview, former Trump administration official, extremism and fear, radicalization and identity, preventing political violence, January 6 insurrection analysis, national security and extremism, Christian nationalism explained, moral courage in politics, integrity vs loyalty, obedience and conscience, fear-based politics, polarization in America, how extremism takes root, psychological drivers of extremism, love as violence prevention, community resilience against extremism, speaking out against extremism, truth-telling in polarized communities, cost of dissent, faith formation and identity, Bible Belt culture, 9/11 and national security policy, domestic extremism explained, religious identity and politics, political loyalty and integrity, navigating moral conflict at work, radicalization warning signs, de-escalation and prevention strategies, engaging people at risk of extremism, the role of fear in radicalization, democracy under threat, institutions under strain, January 6 lessons learned, Christian ethics in public life, power vs moral responsibility, extremism inside institutions, violence prevention strategies, faith-based approaches to peacebuilding, why people believe extreme ideologies, breaking cycles of outrage, love and accountability in community, political identity and belonging, courageous leadership in divided times, how narratives shape extremism, faith, fear, and power, rebuilding trust across difference

In this episode Elizabeth Oldfield speaks with writer, environmentalist, and activist George Monbiot - a fiercely anti-establishment voice shaped by resistance, trauma, and a refusal to become what Britain’s elite institutions tried to make him.We discuss:- Why the language we use around the environment and climate change, isn't sufficient - Growing up with buried histories of English fascism and Jewish refuge, and what Britain still refuses to face- Boarding school trauma, survival personalities, and opting out of elite power systems- Is faith needed for moral courage?- How real change happens without becoming the thing you’re fighting---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 👉 Follow George Monbiot: https://www.instagram.com/georgemonbiot/?hl=enChapters:00:00 Trailer and Intro00:56 What is Sacred to you? George Monbiot answers 06:00 Language Shapes the Fight for Our Planet09:00 Uncovering British Fascism and His Grandmother's Involvement12:00 Boarding School and How Elitism Tried to Shape Him15:00 Journalism and Environmental Campaigns18:00 Why Society and Power Work the Way They Do21:00 How to Speak Up as an Activist Without Losing People 24:00 Power, Purpose, and How to Live DifferentlyKeywords:George Monbiot interview on The Sacred podcast, environmental activism and climate change discussion, how to live differently from the British elite, fighting for the living planet, rewilding and regenerative agriculture ideas, understanding neoliberalism and power, environmentalist’s guide to ethical living, grassroots activism for ecological justice, climate breakdown explained by George Monbiot, public luxury and private sufficiency philosophy, moral courage and personal growth stories, human nature and altruism debate, survival personality from boarding school trauma, family history of fascism and refugees, life lessons from an anti-establishment thinker, insights into environmental journalism, political resistance and direct action in Britain, lessons from activism in Brazil and West Papua, preserving biodiversity and ecosystems, transformative environmental philosophy, connecting with nature for mental health, environmental ethics for everyday life, how to persuade people about climate crisis, the role of empathy in social change, understanding the 1% and societal power, regenerative living and sustainable farming practices, ecological systems and life support functions, teaching community values and cooperation, overcoming fear and selfishness in society, personal transformation through nature, insights into British history and hidden fascism, activism strategies that work in practice, human impact on the natural world, fighting the system while staying honest, exploring moral and ethical values, climate emergency communication strategies, environmental storytelling for change, balancing anger and persuasion in activism, learning from liberation theology and social justice, life lessons from a radical environmentalist, tackling neoliberal myths about human nature, the role of courage in ethical action, George Monbiot on biodiversity recovery, understanding climate chaos, inspiring environmental leadership stories, how humans can live in harmony with the planet, the power of knowledge and curiosity in activism

In this special end-of-year reflection episode of The Sacred, we're slowing down and seeing the season out with some of Elizabeth's favourite poems. Take a moment to sit with darkness and light, to reflect on the year, and to rest in words that have carried us through conversations about grief, migration, identity, hope and moral courage.Elizabeth reads some of the poems that have steadied her this season, from William Stafford and W.H. Auden to John Donne and Alfred Lord Tennyson.Poem credits: 'A Ritual to Read to Each other' from book 'Ask Me' by William Stafford from Graywolf Press. 'September 1, 1939' by W.H. Auden.'Nativity' by John DonneExcerpt from 'In Memoriam' by Alfred Lord Tennyson.📝 We’d be so grateful if you could fill out out listener survey. If you’ve been nourished by The Sacred, we’d really love to hear from you. We'd love to know what’s helping, or what’s not and what you’d like to see more of. Here's the link: https://biblesociety.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3WMJCr2xnXcxIq2🌟Wherever you are, we hope you find rest and time to slow down in this season. We’re grateful to be on this journey with you and we’ll see you in the new year!

Elizabeth Oldfield speaks with Andrew Graystone about his role in uncovering the serial abuser John Smyth and the institutional cover-ups within the Church that kept the truth hidden.Andrew is a Writer, Broadcaster and Activist. He shares the story behind his new book Bleeding for Jesus and the hidden patterns that shape the lives of Christian leaders. He reflects on why institutions so often cover up wrongdoing, what it really costs to tell the truth, and how ordinary people can resist cultures of fear.He speaks about his own experiences of humiliation and redemption, how shame shapes our public life, and why hospitality - opening your door, your life, your table - can be a radical spiritual act. This is a tender and hopeful conversation about what it means to live with courage and integrity when systems around us bend towards self-protection.Please could you fill out our listener survey? We’d be so grateful. https://biblesociety.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3WMJCr2xnXcxIq2🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 👉 Follow and Buy Andrew’s book ‘Bleeding for Jesus’: https://x.com/AndrewGraystoneSupport links:- Minister and Clergy Sexual Abuse Survivors (MACSAS)⁠www.macsas.org.uk⁠- National Association for People Abused in Childhood⁠www.napac.org.uk⁠- Samaritans⁠www.samaritans.org⁠ or by phone on 116 123- The Survivors Trust⁠www.thesurvivorstrust.org⁠- Safe Spaces⁠www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk ⁠or by phone 0300 303 1566- British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy⁠www.bacp.co.uk/about-therapy/information-about-counselling⁠Chapters:00:00 Could you fill out our listener survey?01:15 Trailer and intro02:24 What is Sacred to you? Andrew Graystone answers10:00 Navigating Privilege and Inequality13:17 Principles of Living and Values18:00 Challenges of Hospitality and Community20:23 The Titus Trust and John Smyth Abuse Revelation31:49 Understanding Abuse and Its Impacts38:40 The Role of Institutions in Abuse43:09 Bystander Effect and Institutional Failures51:36 Anger, Gentleness, and Advocacy56:43 Closing Reflections on Power and PresenceKeywords:Andrew Graystone, Elizabeth Oldfield, The Sacred podcast, John Smyth abuse, Church abuse cover-up, Christian leaders accountability, False Profit book, exposing institutional abuse, faith and courage, standing up to power, moral courage, church scandals, abuse in Christian institutions, protecting the vulnerable, institutional failure, covering up wrongdoing, speaking truth to power, courage in faith, navigating shame, humiliation and redemption, pastoral accountability, moral imagination, ethical leadership, Christian ethics, religious institutions and abuse, confronting toxic power, survivors of abuse, advocating for victims, truth-telling in institutions, faith and justice, everyday courage, confronting secrecy, resisting culture of fear, hospitality as spiritual act, radical hospitality, opening your home to others, integrity and faith, walking with survivors, spiritual formation, institutional reform, uncovering abuse, moral responsibility, restorative justice, rebuilding trust, abuse survivors stories, church accountability, ethical decision making, courage under pressure, exposing wrongdoing, Christian leadership lessons, protecting the marginalized, personal integrity, confronting moral failure, courage in difficult times, learning from shame, Cathay Newman, Channel 4

In this live episode of The Sacred, Elizabeth Oldfield sits down with Channel 4 journalist Cathy Newman to the moments that guided her toward investigative journalism and a lifelong commitment to seeking truth. They talk about:✍️Investigative journalism and its role in holding power accountable ⛪ Investigating John Smyth's abuse in the Church of England✖️Navigating public scrutiny, social media abuse, and global debates 🌍The importance of diverse perspectives in newsrooms for more accurate reporting Cathy shares candid insights about truth, bias, and the pursuit of justice in journalism, highlighting the human stories behind the headlines and why public service media matters now more than ever. 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 👉 Follow Cathy: https://x.com/cathynewman?lang=enHosted by How the Light Gets In Keywords:Cathy Newman, Cathy Newman interview, Channel 4 News, Investigative journalism, Holding power to account, Accountability journalism, Truth in journalism, Media bias, Bias and perspective, Post-truth world, Public trust in media, Ethics in journalism, Moral courage, Whistleblowers, Abuse of power, Church abuse investigations, John Smyth investigation, Political scandals UK, Truth seekers, Journalism and justice, Cathy Newman The Sacred, The Sacred podcast, Elizabeth Oldfield, Courageous conversations, Speaking truth to power, Newsroom diversity, Media responsibility, Reporting on conflict, Gaza reporting ethics, War reporting challenges, Human nature and journalism, The human condition, Understanding truth, Misogyny in media, Online abuse journalists, Jordan Peterson interview, Public backlash, Investigative reporting stories, Exposing wrongdoing, Social justice journalism, Fact-based reporting, Trustworthy journalism, Impactful storytelling, Power dynamics, UK journalism, Female journalists UK, Journalism values, Holding leaders accountable, Media integrity, Hard-hitting interviews

The world is overwhelming. Every day we’re bombarded with noise, outrage, and content designed to distract, numb, or divide us. It’s changing us...and not always for the better.We created the Sacred Podcast as a response to the chaos. It’s more than a podcast - it’s a space to slow down, reflect, and listen deeply. A place to practice empathy, curiosity, and understanding in a world that often rewards the opposite.In each episode, we sit down with someone who has a public voice and ask them: What’s sacred to you? We explore their ideas and practice genuine curiosity and engagement. No rage bait or arguing. Along the way, we’re learning to build our tolerance, understanding, and empathy for people who see the world differently to us.If you feel you need this too, come join us at The Sacred 💛🔔 Make sure you're subscribed to us to never miss an episode!🤝 Find us on IG:   / sacred_podcast  🎥 Liike Agency Keywords:The world feels overwhelming right now, too much noise, too much division, too many opinions. Many of us are searching for calm, meaning, and a deeper kind of strength. The Sacred Podcast is a space to slow down, listen deeply, and reconnect with what truly matters. It’s for anyone feeling anxious about the state of the world, craving stillness, or seeking emotional and spiritual resilience. This film shares our vision: to find steadiness amid chaos, to rebuild empathy, and to remember our shared humanity. If you’re longing for grounding and hope in uncertain times, you’re in the right place.Echoes of the Rift by Author Fields of Ethera, licensed under Track Club by Marmoset LLCEclipse" by Khamsin, licensed by The Music Bed LLC

How can you reconcile all parts of your identity in an increasingly polarised landscape?After a mystical experience in a Sydney bar, David Bennett found himself shifting from queer theory and student politics towards a surprising new centre of gravity: the Christian faith. Today he describes himself as a gay celibate Christian, someone living between two tribes often assumed to be incompatible.In this deep and tender conversation, theologian David speaks with Elizabeth Oldfield about his long wrestle with desire, queer identity and Scripture; why he believes celibacy can be liberating rather than repressive; and how he hopes to build bridges across an increasingly polarised landscape.They explore what happens when your story becomes symbolic in the culture wars, how to refuse weaponisation from both left and right, and what it means to live as a pilgrim - someone always on the way, always becoming.---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 👉 Follow David: https://www.instagram.com/davidacbennett/?hl=enChapters:00:00 - Intro 00:48 - What is Sacred to you? David Bennett answers02:00 - Growing Up and Not Fitting In05:00 - Coming Out & the Shockwaves at Home08:00 - Searching for Meaning: A Tour Through Belief Systems11:00 - Encountering God: The Moment Everything Shifted17:00 - Queer and Christian: Living in the Tension20:00 - Queer Side A and B Explained23:00 - Love, Honesty, Humility: The Values That Ground Him26:00 - Navigating criticism from Progressives and Conservatives29:00 - Living authentically with both identities32:00 - Final Reflections: Hope, Courage & Spiritual Belonging49:00 - David's message to the LGBTQI+ community58:30 - Elizabeth's reflectionsKeywords:David Bennett, gay Christian, celibate gay Christian, Side B Christianity, Side A vs Side B, queer Christianity, queer theology, queerness and faith, LGBTQ and religion, gay and Christian, Christianity and sexuality, Christian celibacy, re-sublimation of desire, same-sex attracted Christian, spiritual pilgrimage, faith and identity, culture war debates, progressive vs conservative Christianity, gay celibacy debate, queer identity and church, sexual ethics in Christianity, Romans 8:20 interpretation, Christian views on sexuality, LGBTQ inclusion in church, modern Christian ethics, religious trauma, faith deconstruction, faith reconstruction, conversion experience, encountering God, Christian testimony, reconciling faith and sexuality, Christian community rejection, building bridges across divides, Christian identity struggles, Oxford theology, queer theory and Christianity, celibacy as vocation, Christian friendship and community, Augustine and pilgrimage, Christian witness, culture wars and faith, LGBTQ spiritual journeys, progressive Christian critique, conservative Christian critique, Christian ethics of desire, healthy celibacy, alternative Christian vocations, strangeness of God’s love, living between two tribes

Award-winning journalist and filmmaker Mobeen Azhar and Elizabeth Oldfield to talk about his extraordinary career telling hidden and untold stories - from interviewing white supremacists, extremists, drug dealers, and killers; exposing police corruption, cults, and cover-ups; and told raw stories from inside prisons, mosques, and nightclubs. In an age of outrage and dehumanisation, Mobeen's journalism combats hate and demonisation with empathy and understanding to reveal the human story beyond the headlines.---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 👉 Follow Mobeen: https://www.instagram.com/mobeen_azhar/?hl=en-gbKeywords:His award-winning documentaries include Small Town, Big Riot (BBC), uncovering how racism and misinformation fuelled a violent protest in Merseyside; The Battle for Britney, going inside the global #FreeBritney movement; The Satanic Verses: 30 Years On, exploring faith, art, and offence; Hometown: A Killing, investigating a murder in his own community; The Men Who Sell Sex; The Mosque Next Door; The Black and White Killing; The Soldiers That Saved Britain; and The Kandahar Killings. In this episode of The Sacred, journalist and documentary filmmaker Mobeen Azhar talks about racism, faith, and moral courage. Known for BBC documentaries like Small Town, Big Riot, Hometown: A Killing, and The Battle for Britney, Mobeen shares what it’s like to be a Muslim journalist in Britain interviewing racists, extremists, and people on the margins of society. He discusses empathy over outrage, understanding hate, and finding transcendence on the techno rave dance floor. This powerful conversation explores race, religion, identity, decency, and compassion in a divided world — and asks how we can stay human in the face of injustice and polarisation.

Grief, peace, and the search for steadiness of soul - comedian, writer and Griefcast host Cariad Lloyd joins Elizabeth Oldfield to talk about the gift and absurdity of grief. Cariad opens up about her father’s death, comedy as survival, and the small, sacred acts that keep her grounded. She also shares what it means to raise her kids with honesty about loss and how humour helps us stay human in the face of death.---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 👉 Listen to Cariad's Griefcast Podcast: https://cariadlloyd.com/griefcastChapters00:00 Intro01:42 What is Sacred to you? Cariad Lloyd answers11:43 Growing up spiritual18:30 Grief, Spirituality and Doubt 24:32 Grief becomes a part of you27:14 The Role of Comedy in Grief35:00 Sharing Grief Stories38:52 How to be there for people who are grieving44:07 Are there gifts in grief?50:02 Death in children's books?Keywords:Cariad Lloyd interview, The Sacred podcast, Elizabeth Oldfield, grief podcast, grief and loss, dealing with grief, how to talk about death, finding peace, mental health, anxiety, parenting, motherhood, faith, spirituality, meaning, purpose, finding what’s sacred, inner peace, steadiness of soul, moral courage, emotional resilience, grief and comedy, using humor to heal, British comedian, Griefcast host, You Are Not Alone book, Where Did She Go book, grief for children, death in children’s books, coping with bereavement, mindfulness, self-compassion, anxiety and rest, the power of rituals, modern spirituality, finding calm, spiritual grounding, how to support someone grieving, death and culture, secular spirituality, community and loss, talking about death honestly, creative process, storytelling and healing, grief and art, grief and performance, how to live with loss, moral honesty, authenticity, being a decent human, emotional honesty, spiritual strength, learning from pain, comedy and tragedy, British podcasts about meaning

Why honest conversations about race, class and power make us defensive - and why should we face them anyway.Author, teacher and broadcaster Jeffrey Boakye joins Elizabeth Oldfield to talk about truth, joy, race and power and why he believes we can’t fix what we’re too scared to face.We speak about:👊🏾 Jeffrey's fusion of Black British identities from growing up in Brixton ✏️ The role of a teacher and finding his voice in a mostly white education system⚡ Learning how to challenge dominant power structures like whiteness, class and Britishness This is a conversation about courage, fear, and how we can talk about race, class and identity without tearing each other apart.---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/👉 Follow Jeffrey Boakye: https://x.com/jeffreykboakyeChapters:00:00 - Intro01:06 - What is Sacred to you? Jeffrey Boakye answers06:23 - Growing up in Brixton as a Ghanaian Catholic15:30 - Cultural Identities: Black Britishness and Jamaican youth culture 26:00 - “I became a white woman” teaching while Black33:00 - Why conversations about race make us defensive and what to do about it42:00 - Power, fear, and the culture wars50:00 - Why it’s race and class - not race or class55:47 - Class and it's connection to the slave trade 56:27 - Anti-immigrant propaganda targeted at the working class57:54 - Reflection by ElizabethKeywords:Jeffrey Boakye delves into the complexities of power dynamics and the importance of challenging power through truth and joy. He explores cultural identity, drawing from his experiences growing up in Brixton, and discusses the intersectionality of race and class within the education system. The conversation touches on societal structures, the role of religion and community, and the need for empathy in public discourse. Boakye highlights the influence of Caribbean culture and the significance of language in shaping identity. As a teacher, he emphasises the importance of education as a tool for social change, advocating for educational reform and equity. The discussion also covers themes of privilege, patriarchy, white supremacy, colonialism, homophobia, and misogyny, while celebrating the richness of Black British culture and multiculturalism. Through storytelling and narrative, Boakye shares his personal values and life philosophy, encouraging social justice, diversity, and inclusion. The episode invites listeners to reflect on social norms, personal growth, and the power of dialogue, understanding, and compassion in fostering human connection and systemic change. With a focus on critical thinking, reflective practice, and educational equity, Boakye inspires empowerment, creativity, and collaboration, urging us to embrace curiosity, exploration, and authenticity in our pursuit of knowledge and wisdom

What can an ancient tradition like Druidry teach us about living well today?In this episode of The Sacred Podcast, Elizabeth Oldfield speaks with Philip Carr-Gomm, psychologist, author, and longtime leader of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids. They explore how trees and nature are sacred, the meaning of magic in everyday life, and why ancient wisdom traditions might be exactly what we need in an age of ecological crisis and polarisation.🌳 Why trees, forests, and nature are sacred🤝 Why Buddhism felt more appealing than Christianity in his early years✨ What “magic” really means in psychology and spirituality🌍 How ancient wisdom, Celtic spirituality, and eco-spirituality can guide us todayThis conversation touches on modern druidry, earth-based spirituality, mindfulness, interfaith dialogue, and spiritual growth with insight into how we can find the sacred in everyday life and respond with wisdom to our times.---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 🌀 Follow Philip Carr-Gomm's work: https://philipcarr-gomm.com/Chapters00:00 Intro01:10 What is Sacred to you? Philip Carr-Gomm answers 03:00 Why Trees Hold the Secret to Spiritual Enlightenment09:00 The Influences of a Druid's Childhood18:00 Diversity and Inclusivity in Druidry 27:00 Art and Nature Collide: The Untold Story of Druidry36:00 Magic and The Transformative Secrets of Druidry45:00 Masculine and Feminine Energies54:00 Druidry's Historical Tapestry01:03:00 The Divine Child: A Controversial Bridge Between Faiths01:12:00 Gender in Spirituality: The Debate That’s Changing Everything01:21:00 Can Spiritual Dialogue Break Down Barriers?KeywordsIn this conversation, Elizabeth Oldfield speaks with Philip Carr-Gomm, psychologist, author, and modern druid, about the wisdom of Druidry, Celtic spirituality, and the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids. They explore why trees are sacred, the role of nature in spirituality, and how ancient wisdom traditions can guide us today. Philip explains the meaning of magic, the connections between Buddhism, Christianity, and earth-based spirituality, and how practices of eco-spirituality, mindfulness, and nature connection can help us find the sacred in everyday life. This episode of The Sacred Podcast is for anyone curious about spiritual growth, interfaith dialogue, ancient traditions, modern druidry, psychology and spirituality, exploring faith, and spiritual wisdom in an age of ecological crisis and cultural polarization, polarisation.

Elizabeth Oldfield and Rod Dreher tackle one of the most urgent and contentious questions of our time: how should nations, and individuals, relate to migrants in our midst? How do we balance compassion for migrants with the protection of vulnerable citizens? How does Christianity shape responsibilities to strangers? And why do honest conversations about these issues so often spiral into demonisation and division?🤝This bonus episode is taken from Midwestuary 2025 and models honest disagreement without dehumanisation, showing a different way to engage with hard topics in our societies.🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 🎙️ Follow Midwestuary: https://www.midwestuary.com/Keywords:Immigration is one of the most divisive issues of our time, raising questions of compassion, fear, morality, and national security. In this conversation, Elizabeth Oldfield and Rod Dreher explore how Christianity shapes our response to the stranger, what it means to love our neighbor, and how to hold moral dilemmas around migration without demonizing each other. Together they model how to disagree well, listen across divides, and search for common ground in the middle of a polarized immigration debate, polarised immigration debate

In a world where half of young people UK dream of becoming influencers, Jade Bowler delves into the hidden costs of this career - from burnout and loneliness to the struggle for authenticity. Jade Bowler (@UnJadedJade ) is an author, content creator, podcaster, and one of the UK’s first “StudyTubers.” Since starting her YouTube channel at 16, Jade has built a global audience and is shaping a generation interested in spirituality, self-discovery in your 20s, productivity and finding "casual magic" in your every day. Elizabeth Oldfield and Jade Bowler talk about:🎙️The hidden costs of being a content creator, the pressures of social media and the responsibility of influencers 🌿 How to live authentically online and build genuine connection when millions are watching🌈Jade’s journey of coming out and navigating internalised homophobia---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✨ Listen to Jade's podcast @findingyourcasualmagicChapters00:00 Intro01:16 What is Sacred to you? Jade Bowler Answers02:35 Craving connection and finding it online08:30 Jade reflects on her parents’ contrasting influences11:11 Bullied for being "too academic"13:53 Starting StudyTube at 16:56 The weight of fame, influence and responsibility20:15 Algorithmic pressure vs creativity26:10 Authenticity vs. Performance online32:15 Searching to fill the wisdom-gap38:11 Coming out online and internalised homophobia43:52 The hidden cost of being a creatorKeywordsJade Bowler (known online as UnJaded Jade) is one of the UK’s first StudyTubers who built a global audience sharing study tips, motivation, and her journey as a student. In this episode of The Sacred Podcast, Jade reflects on what it’s really like to grow up online and live as a content creator in a world driven by algorithms, short-form video, and the pressures of social media.We dive deep into the hidden costs of being an influencer: from creator burnout, loneliness, and mental health struggles, to the constant pressure to stay relevant on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Jade speaks honestly about the difference between being a StudyTuber at 16 and navigating life now as a young woman in her 20s.Jade also shares her coming out story as an LGBTQ+ creator, reflecting on her experience with internalised homophobia, the importance of authenticity online, and how to build genuine connection and community with an audience. She discusses what it means to be a Gen Z content creator, the challenges of making your personal life part of your brand, and how she finds balance, meaning, and even spirituality in the digital age.

In this special Ask Me Anything episode, Elizabeth Oldfield sits down with our new producer Joe, to answer some of the most moving, interesting, and challenging questions we’ve ever received.We go deep into topics of loneliness, forgiveness, parenting, the risks and rewards of finding a community, the disappointment of unmet dreams and the question of representation on the podcast.We were surprised by how often we found ourselves nodding, laughing, and even a bit emotional in response to what you asked.🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ Keywords:Ask Me Anything, Q&A, listener questions, echo chambers, polarisation, loneliness, community, intentional community, community living, eating together, table fellowship, belonging, friendship, forgiveness, disappointment, unmet dreams, hope in hard times, parenting, parenting struggles, parenting with presence, faith and family, raising children with values, marriage and family life, sacred values, what’s your sacred, beauty and patriarchy, church and gender, patriarchy in the church, faith and patriarchy, loving your neighbour, loving enemies, neighbourhood, atomised society, building community, community resilience, honesty and vulnerability, vulnerable conversation, spiritual practice, faith in messy times, your questions answered, faith and doubt, community of listeners, living with hope, why forgiveness matters, how to find belonging, meaningful conversation, spiritual reflection.

We’re putting together a Q+A episode and would love to hear what’s on your mind right now.If you're new here, we're all about deep conversations, exploring spirituality and our values, relational dilemmas and how to live together well, and of course talking about how to be when the world is in crisis.We welcome both big and small questions for Elizabeth and the podcast team!How to send👇 💌- Drop them in the comments for this episode- DM us a message / voice note / video on X, TikTok or Instagram- Email us at [email protected] soon,Elizabeth & The Sacred Team

In this reflection episode, Elizabeth steps back from interviews to ask: what’s really staying with me from these conversations?We explore themes of gender, division, fear, and the deep longing for connection in a time when everything can feel like it’s falling apart - politically, socially and spiritually.We talk about:Why gender is so hard to talk about without blameThe “polycrisis” and our collective fight-or-flightHow contempt sneaks in and empathy fadesWhether old spiritual traditions still have anything to offerAnd what it takes to stay human (and stay open) in a polarised world🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 🌿 Take a break with us in August. Take time to be with your people and "unplug" yourself from the online world. We'll see you in September.

What happens when standing by your principles means losing your community?David French was once a Republican darling - a military veteran in Iraq, a pro-life lawyer, and a defender of religious liberty. But when he publicly opposed Donald Trump in 2016, everything changed. His church turned on him, his family received threats, and he became controversial figure in political and religious debates.In this conversation, David reflects on the cost of choosing virtue over political loyalty, why free speech still matters even when it's painful, and what it’s like to be exiled by your tribe.We talk about moral courage, the state of American evangelicalism, and what it means to stay principled in a world that rewards tribalism.🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow David French: https://x.com/davidafrench?lang=enChapters00:00 Intro01:07 What is Sacred to you? David French answers01:29 Defining Virtue in American Society06:26 When Have Your Virtues Been Tested?14:42 Formative Experiences and Moral Foundations18:40 Political Awakening and Conservative Values27:27 The Role of Civil Liberties in Society30:47 The Importance of Defending Difficult Speech33:31 The Importance of Free Speech36:39 Serving in the Iraq war39:52 Transformative Experiences of War44:10 Political Identity and Church Community Rejection50:49 The Impact of Community Rejection54:52 Staying True to Principles Over TribesKeywords:David French - veteran, constitutional lawyer, political commentator, and lifelong conservative - joins The Sacred to talk about the cost of staying true to his values. In this episode, he shares how refusing to support Donald Trump led to being “cancelled” by his church, receiving threats, and becoming a controversial figure in conservative Christian circles. We explore free speech, religious freedom, evangelical politics, cancel culture, moral courage, integrity, and the crisis of virtue in public life. David speaks about his military service in Iraq, his time defending civil liberties, and why he believes principles should come before political parties. This conversation is for anyone wrestling with faith and politics, Christian identity, the culture wars, the evangelical church, or what it means to live with integrity in polarised times. Topics include: Christian conservatism, Never Trump, leaving church, freedom of speech, spiritual exile, republican, political pressure, and how to remain faithful under fire.

After three incredible years, we're saying goodbye to our producer, Daniel Turner. We sat down with him to reflect on his journey, asking what's making young men conservative?In this special episode of The Sacred, we debrief on what it's like to work on the podcast, explore how leadership failures challenged his faith, talk about masculinity, abortion and the influence of figures like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson on young men. We discuss generational divides in politics, and reflect on the guests who’ve shaped him most.--🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Daniel Turner's writing: https://etcet.substack.com/Chapters:0:00 Intro1:19 What is Sacred to you? Daniel Turner answers2:23 Fighting to remain curious3:33 Growing up in a religious community6:28 Why did you leave the community?9:32 Moral failures within the church10:30 Difficulty reengaging with church 12:10 Is there a "quiet revival" in church?15:15 Getting married and having children young20:36 Parenthood and purpose22:58 The "manosphere" and masculinity27:13 Thoughts on Jordan Peterson28:28 Curiosity towards Andrew Tate 32:00 Choosing Sacred guests34:00 Gen Z: apathy, escapism and polarisation37:29 The Pro-Life Perspective: Community and Support45:29 Final reflections on Three Years with The SacredKey Topics:Faith crisis, church trauma, spiritual deconstruction, young Christian experience, masculinity crisis, religious leadership failure, pro-life perspectives, community healing, millennial faith journey, generational spiritual shifts, Catholic charismatic renewal, intellectual curiosity in faith, overcoming church hurt, Jordan Peterson influence, Gen Z spirituality, early marriage and faith, parenting and religious identity, radical forgiveness, navigating religious doubt, Christian masculinity, spiritual resilience, church culture critique, personal transformation, faith and family dynamics, religious community challenges, healing from spiritual abuse, authentic Christian experience, interfaith dialogue, moral complexity in faith, young men's spiritual journey, church leadership accountability, reconciliation after trauma, spiritual questioning, community support systems, religious identity exploration, emotional intelligence in faith, radical listening, intergenerational spiritual conversations, Christian identity reconstruction, spiritual mentorship, faith and cultural shifts, personal testimony, religious freedom, spiritual growth, church trauma recovery, authentic belief, millennial religious experience, spiritual resilience, faith-based personal development, sacred conversations.

In this bonus episode, Elizabeth Oldfield and Christine Emba dive deep into the heart of what it means to live a good life in turbulent times. Recorded in Washington, DC, this intimate discussion explores vulnerability, community, and finding hope when the world feels overwhelming. 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Christine: https://x.com/christineemba?lang=enKeywords:community, resilience, purpose, vulnerability, moral courage, spirituality, friendship, authenticity, connection, meaning, hope, personal growth, wisdom, integrity, social infrastructure, interdependence, faith, trust, compassion, transformation, belonging, self-discovery, empathy, community building, personal values, spiritual strength, emotional intelligence, social connection, mindfulness, resilience, personal development, human connection, inner growth, social awareness, emotional resilience, personal transformation, spiritual journey, community support, self-reflection, moral compass, human potential, personal evolution, social bonds, emotional depth, spiritual practice, personal integrity, community engagement, inner strength, vulnerability, meaningful living

Fariha Róisín is a poet, Muslim, and survivor of extreme childhood trauma. In this raw, soul-baring conversation, they speak about the long road from abuse to healing - via Islam, queerness, Ayahuasca, and a radical reimagining of wellness.This is not your typical conversation about wellness, it's about what healing really takes and why the current wellness industry often gets it so wrong.🎧 In this episode:- What Western wellness won’t tell you about trauma- How Islam became a radical site of healing and resistance- Reclaiming the body, queerness, and spiritual power- The deeper spiritual technologies beyond capitalism⚠️ Trigger warning: This episode includes discussion of child sexual abuse and self harm.--🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Fariha: https://www.instagram.com/fariha_roisin/?hl=enChapters:00:00 Intro01:21 What is Sacred to you? Fariha Answers04:51 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact08:54 Islam and Personal Identity15:26 Queerness and Faith20:50 The Intersection of Wellness and Spirituality29:10 Rituals and Agency in Modern Life32:45 Discerning Wellness: A Critical Perspective36:08 The Role of Spirituality and Healing Modalities40:12 Ayahuasca: A Transformative Experience50:07 Reflections on Faith and Historical ContextsKeywords:Transformative journey of healing, spirituality, and resistance: Ayahuasca, spiritual healing, trauma recovery, decolonization, decolonisation, Muslim spirituality, queer faith, wellness revolution, intergenerational trauma, plant medicine, indigenous wisdom, childhood abuse survivor, radical self-care, spiritual transformation, colonialism and healing, Islamic feminism, psychedelic therapy, ancestral healing, spiritual awakening, mental health recovery, cultural resilience, holistic wellness, trauma-informed healing, spiritual resistance, alternative medicine, intersectional spirituality, sexual abuse recovery, mindfulness practices, feminist spirituality, postcolonial healing, spiritual empowerment, trauma therapy, queer spirituality, indigenous medicine, wellness culture, spiritual journey, healing from abuse, cultural trauma, spiritual liberation, body-mind healing, radical wellness, spiritual resilience, trauma centred care, cultural identity, spiritual practices, healing rituals, emotional recovery, spiritual guidance, transformative healing, cultural empowerment, spiritual connection, trauma integration, holistic healing, spiritual awakening, cultural healing, trauma-informed spirituality, spiritual growth, healing modalities, cultural transformation, spiritual resilience, trauma recovery techniques.

We sat down with Jonathan Rauch - a gay, Jewish atheist - to explore his remarkable journey from accepting his sexuality and rejecting religion to becoming a key voice advocating for same-sex marriage and the vital role of Christianity in sustaining liberal, secular democracy.Key topics include:- Jonathan's personal wrestle with his sexuality and eventual acceptance- His commitment to gay and lesbian equality and the social conservative case for same-sex marriage- The negative effects of secularisation - The importance of Christian values in supporting liberal democracy and the need for a Christian revival---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Jonathan Rauch: https://x.com/jon_rauch?lang=enChapters:00:00 Intro00:57 What is Sacred to you? Jonathan Rauch answers02:48 Childhood Influences and Jewish Identity05:58 Feeling on the outside06:58 Trying to be religious08:47 The Fight for Free Speech and Liberalism11:52 The Journey to Same-Sex Marriage Advocacy15:06 Navigating Personal and Public Identity17:57 Understanding Anger and Tolerance in Debate19:44 Denial and Acceptance of Same-Sex Attraction34:28 Advocating for Christianity as an Atheist36:14 The Consequences of Secularisation38:19 The Role of Christianity in Democracy40:42 Core Teachings of Christianity and Liberalism47:21 The Need for Christianity in Secular Society51:13 The Search for Transcendence54:34 Messages for Secular Liberals and ChristiansKeywords:Jonathan Rauch, Liberal democracy, Christianity and politics, Gay rights, Same-sex marriage, Religious freedom, Secular society, American democracy, Political philosophy, Free speech, LGBTQ+ rights, Jewish identity, Atheism, Religious values, Social change, Political discourse, Minority rights, Cultural transformation, Civic engagement, Religious tolerance, Political liberalism, Social conservatism, Identity politics, Democratic values, Religious revival, Intellectual history, Cultural dialogue, Personal identity, Political belief, Social justice, Religious pluralism, American creed, Constitutional values, Community building, Interfaith dialogue, Political moderation, Cultural understanding, Religious institutions, Social cohesion, Intellectual freedom, Political compromise, Religious skepticism, Cultural diversity, Democratic principles, Social transformation, Religious critique, Political philosophy, Civic virtues, Cultural evolution, Intellectual honesty

Bestselling author Caitlin Moran made waves with her 2011 feminist classic How to Be a Woman. Now, she’s calling for an urgent conversation about the crisis of modern masculinity.In this special live episode of The Sacred, Elizabeth Oldfield and Daniel Turner sit down with Caitlin for a hilarious, moving, and deeply honest conversation that challenges what we think we know about men, women, gender roles, and society today.Together, they explore:✖️ The masculinity crisis and the rise of the manosphere📖 The cultural impact of 'How to Be a Woman'😡 The intense backlash Caitlin received for writing about boys and men♂️ Why men struggle with health, identity, and emotional development🔄 The differences in how society handles midlife crises in men vs women🧠 How we can move beyond stereotypes toward a healthier, more compassionate vision of masculinity🎥 Recorded at our Sacred Live eventChapters00:00 Exploring Gender: The Unasked Questions01:54 The Sacred Values: Making People Feel Better04:53 Childhood Influences: A Unique Upbringing09:51 The Journey of a Writer: From Music Journalism to Feminism18:00 The Impact of 'How to Be a Woman' and Public Perception27:01 The Responsibility of Influence: Navigating Public Opinion28:49 The Art of Persuasion in Writing30:42 Hospitality in Communication31:36 The Importance of Awareness33:13 Navigating Tone and Authenticity34:54 The Journey to the Times36:49 Exploring Feminism and Masculinity37:47 Cultural Shifts in Gender Perception39:41 Addressing the Crisis of Masculinity41:31 Feminism's Role in Men's Issues43:16 The Backlash Against Men's Conversations45:18 The Lack of Resources for Men47:09 Expanding the Conversation49:21 Finding Purpose in Modern Society50:55 The Quest for Meaning52:45 Cinematic Narratives for Boys and Heroic Archetypes56:51 The Stiff Upper Lip Mentality58:34 The Importance of VulnerabilityAudience Q+A01:02:35 Are there unique differences between men and women?01:07:21 The Interior Lives of Men01:10:58 Why are kids terrified of their interior lives?01:16:41 What is the role of men in modern society?01:23:11 Navigating anxiety and self care01:28:40 Elizabeth Oldfield's reflectionKeywords:Why are teenage boys struggling today? What does it mean to be a man in 2025? Is masculinity in crisis, or just changing? What happened to male role models — and why are so many young men turning to figures like Andrew Tate or Jordan Peterson for guidance? How is red pill culture shaping boys' self-image? What does feminism have to say about men, and how can we raise emotionally intelligent boys in a world full of conflicting messages? Are boys being left behind in conversations about gender? What do they need that they’re not getting — from parents, schools, or culture? How is social media — especially TikTok — influencing masculinity, and what impact is it having on mental health? Why do boys struggle to express their emotions, and how can we help them develop emotional resilience? Should we parent boys differently than girls? And what can we learn from shows like Adolescence on Netflix about what it really means to grow up as a boy today?

Driven by a hunger for more, Joshua Luke Smith opens up about his journey with ADHD, addiction, and the unraveling and deconstruction of his faith. In this honest conversation, he invites us to lay down hustle culture, live poetically, and rediscover the sacred in the life we already have.Together with Elizabeth Oldfield, Joshua reflects on his childhood as a missionary kid in Pakistan, the challenges of identity and belonging, and his path toward sobriety, stillness, and spiritual depth. This is a conversation about presence, recovery, and the radical power of living poetically in a world that never stops moving.---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Joshua Luke Smith: https://www.instagram.com/joshualukesmith/?hl=en / https://www.joshualukesmith.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafB24IDAARfb0OoBIDxWdDgh2FEn4Gl0ybjetYKvrQUeP85UlcThuOY-jFwXg_aem_IUFrBFhG23YMfLvi2crXPgCHAPTERS00:00 Intro00:56 What is Sacred to you? Joshua Luke Smith answers03:12 Reflections on Childhood and Belonging05:57 Missionary Life and Its Complexities09:05 Navigating Identity and Spirituality12:12 The Legacy of Colonialism in Mission Work14:53 The Role of Community in Recovery18:04 Drugs, gluttony and ecstatic experiences 21:01 Joshua shares a poem22:24 Understanding Neurodivergence and Belonging29:52 Living Poetically34:00 Exploring Masculinity and Vulnerability40:05 The Role of Fatherhood in Healing46:01 Authenticity and Spirituality in Modern Times49:07 This is the Main Event: Embracing the PresentKEYWORDSsacred, friendship, belonging, missionary, identity, spirituality, colonialism, community, recovery, neurodivergence, poetry, poetry, masculinity, gender, vulnerability, fatherhood, spirituality, authenticity, healing, community, witness, belonging, Spirituality, belonging, masculinity, faith, missionary, ADHD, recovery, addiction, fatherhood, authenticity, identity, chaos, social media, polarisation, slow living, creativity, healing, vulnerability, transformation, purpose, Christian, Jesus, Creative, Addiction, present, writing, healing, meaning, storytelling, community, wounds, redemption, childhood, Pakistan, deconstruction, Christianity, trauma, self-discovery, mental health, inspiration, resilience, mindfulness, empowerment, relationships, spiritual journey, personal growth, emotional intelligence, art, performance, writing, spoken word, meditation, self-acceptance, overcoming, compassion, introspection, wisdom, courage, transformation, hope, T.S. Eliot, Raymond Carver, Tracy Chapman, Wendell Berry, St. Francis, Eugene Peterson, David White, The Fugees#podcast #poet

Elizabeth Oldfield and author Lamorna Ash and take us on an unexpected journey through faith, doubt, and contemporary spirituality. Fresh from writing her groundbreaking book "Don't Forget We're Here Forever", Lamorna shares her search for meaning, her remarkable immersion in Christianity and her exploration of the surprising ways young people are rediscovering religion.---🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Lamorna Ash: https://www.instagram.com/lamornaaash/?hl=en-gbCHAPTERS00:00 Intro00:48 What is Sacred to you? Lamorna Ash answers05:51 Childhood Influences and Imagination09:01 Navigating Adolescence and Anxiety12:00 The Journey into Writing14:58 Anthropology and Storytelling17:50 Community Values in Fishing21:11 The Process of Writing and Vulnerability23:48 Exploring Faith and Conversion26:56 The Intersection of Writing and Spirituality31:03 Encountering Christianity34:50 The Journey of Understanding Faith39:55 Community and Ritual in Spirituality44:33 The Role of Prayer and Longing49:53 Christian revival?55:01 Navigating Personal and Public Faith01:01:33 The Challenge of Representation in WritingKEYWORDSfaith, doubt, spirituality, meaning, purpose, storytelling, resilience, grief, healing, community, identity, culture, tradition, sacred, secular, introspection, transformation, journey, vulnerability, soul, renewal, belonging, connection, roots, heritage, modern life, inner life, existential, questions, personal growth, belief systems, hope, contemplation, reflection, truth, narrative, spiritual journey, emotional depth, cultural revival, human experience, wonder, curiosity, loss, solitude, silence, self-discovery, poetic, mindfulness, UK culture, literature, place, mystery, Christianity, religion, faith, revival, spiritual, God, theology, belief, resurrection, church, tradition, scripture, sacred, prayer, gospel, Jesus, Bible, hope, redemption, eternity, truth, meaning, purpose, culture, heritage, identity, community, soul, love, grace, sin, forgiveness, modernity, ritual, sacredness, divine, transcendence, reawakening, pilgrimage, devotion, miracles, liturgy, contemplation, mysticism, revelation, morality, salvation, silence, spirit, orthodoxy, renewal, spirituality, literature, UK culture, revolution, cultural revival.#podcast

Elizabeth Oldfield reflects on our latest episodes — and how the mood of our audience is changing in a world of wars, elections, and rising turbulence. She offers a powerful reminder: by choosing to listen, and stepping outside our algorithmic echo chambers, we can resist the forces driving us apart.---🎟️ Book your ticket for the SACRED LIVE: https://linktr.ee/sacredpodcast🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ CHAPTERS00:00:00 Intro00:02:54 The Challenge of Listening to Different Voices00:08:00 Our Audience is Finding Listening Harder Lately00:06:07 Navigating Discomfort 00:08:58 Finding Common Ground in ComplexityKEYWORDSCuriosity, dialogue, empathy, Trump, Biden, polarisation, algorithmic bubbles, social media, Brexit, diversity, open-mindedness, Middle East conflict, radicalisation, US politics, tolerance, perspective-taking, nuanced discourse, cultural complexity, listening skills, humanity, echo chambers, filter bubbles, political division, global understanding, compassionate communication, Westminster, Silicon Valley, algorithmic bias, cultural differences, world values, media manipulation, democratic discourse, international relations, generational perspectives, technological impact, societal connection, intellectual humility, cross-cultural dialogue, political spectrum, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, media literacy, global citizenship, personal growth, challenging assumptions, respectful disagreement, cultural empathy, systemic understanding, power dynamics, human connection.

How do we recognise the humanity on both sides of the Israel-Gaza conflict? Elizabeth Oldfield asks CNN's former Jerusalem Bureau Chief, Richard Allen Greene about journalism, his Jewish faith, and human understanding in the midst of the Israel-Gaza conflict.Key Moments:- Inside the CNN Jerusalem Bureau during October 7th- The challenge of reporting on the Israel-Gaza war- Navigating personal trauma and professional objectivity- The Jewish concept of holiness and human connection- Resisting extremism through empathy and understanding---🎟️ Book your ticket for the SACRED LIVE: https://linktr.ee/sacredpodcast🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Richard Allen Greene: https://x.com/RAGreeneCNNCHAPTERS00:00 Intro 01:06 What is Sacred to you? Richard Allen Greene answers06:45 Childhood Influences and "Tikkun Olam"08:15 Family Background and Jewish Identity09:50 Assimilation and Cultural Identity12:05 The Nature of God and Divine Presence17:04 The Role of Journalism in Society21:08 Objectivity and the Challenges of Journalism28:48 Transitioning from Journalism to Rabbinic School30:03 The Role of a Bureau Chief in Crisis32:24 Navigating Personal Connections in Reporting35:01 Finding Meaning in Senseless Suffering37:23 The Impact of the war on Jewish Communities41:23 Antisemitism and Its Complexities43:50 What is Antisemitism?46:44 Holding Multiple Truths in Conflict49:07 The Importance of Diverse Perspectives53:03 Reflections on Humanity and JournalismKEYWORDSHumanity, Conflict, Sacred, Holy, Values, Tikkun Olam, Identity, Spirituality, God, Journalism, Objectivity, Rabbinical Studies, Media Ethics, Israeli Palestinian, Antisemitism, Community, Meaning, Perspective, Crisis Reporting, Connection, Trauma, Healing, Interfaith, Culture, Resilience, Compassion, Global Politics, Mental Health, War Reporting, Social Justice, Human Rights, Empathy, Reconciliation, Communication, Moral Courage, Hope, Understanding, Tolerance, Transformation, Storytelling, Wisdom, Peacebuilding, Critical Thinking, Experience, Growth, Leadership, Dialogue, Diversity, Humanity, Suffering, Survival#IsraelGaza #Journalism #Humanity #Empathy

Elizabeth spoke to Olympic legend Kriss Akabusi reveals the extraordinary journey from a challenging childhood foster care during the Nigerian civil war, to becoming a world-class athlete and inspirational figure.We spoke about:💪 How discipline and sports became his pathway to self-discovery🇳🇬 Reconnecting with his Nigerian roots and identity after years of rejecting it🎙️ His spiritual awakening and complex relationship with faith---🎟️ Book your ticket for the SACRED LIVE: https://linktr.ee/sacr...🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Kriss Akabusi: https://www.instagram....CHAPTERS00:00:00 Come to The Sacred Live!00:00:32 Intro00:01:32 What is Sacred to you? Kriss Akabusi answers00:03:02 Childhood Influences 00:05:46 Family Background and Nigerian Heritage00:09:40 Experiences in Children's Home and Care System00:12:48 Turning Point: A Moment of Realisation00:17:04 Reunion with Mother and Cultural Disconnection00:22:14 Understanding Parental Sacrifices and Forgiveness00:23:02 Transition to Adulthood and Name Change00:25:32 Life in the Army and Discovering Athletic Talent00:27:55 Finding Purpose Through Sport00:29:04 The 1991 Relay Race: A Game-Changing Strategy00:34:38 The Spirituality of Sport00:41:19 Evolving Spirituality: A Personal Journey00:47:23 Embracing Heritage and Identity00:50:11 The Gift of Life AwarenessKeywords:Kriss, Akabusi, Olympic, Champion, Resilience, Foster, Care, Sports, Motivation, Inspiration, Athlete, Success, Overcoming, Adversity, Personal, Growth, Nigerian, Heritage, Spirituality, Faith, Transformation, Life, Journey, Childhood, Trauma, Mental, Strength, Determination, Achievement, Empowerment, Diversity, Inclusion, Multicultural, Identity, Purpose, Mindset, Coaching, Mentorship, Leadership, Autobiography, Memoir, Triumph, Challenges, Breakthrough, Courage, Discipline, Self-Improvement, Motivation, Storytelling, Empathy, Racism, Survival, Resilience, Immigrant, Experience, Mentality, Willpower, Breakthrough, Potential, Mindfulness, Healing, Transformation, Empowerment, Ancestry, Cultural, Legacy, Perseverance, Vulnerability, Authenticity, Wisdom, Redemption#podcast #KrissAkabusi #Resilience #OlympicChampion #personalgrowth

Matthew Elliott joins Elizabeth Oldfield in his first interview since Brexit to talk about how he became the man behind the Brexit campaign and now a champion of social mobility through business. Elliott shares insights into his family's influence, his political awakening, and the principles that have guided his controversial yet impactful career. He offers a candid look inside the Brexit referendum, explaining the complex motivations that drove the Leave campaign and reflecting on the societal divisions it created.🎟️ Book your ticket for the SACRED LIVE: https://linktr.ee/sacredpodcast🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Matthew Elliott: https://x.com/matthew_elliottCHAPTERS00:00:00 Intro00:01:30 What is Sacred to you? Matthew Elliott Answers00:02:54 Core Values and Life Mission00:06:09 Political Perspectives and Pragmatism00:08:54 Childhood Influences and Political Awakening00:12:01 The Role of Education in Shaping Beliefs00:14:54 The Intersection of Personality and Politics00:18:09 Classical Liberalism and Social Responsibility00:21:06 Government vs. Corporate Surveillance00:24:01 The Role of Business in Society00:26:06 Business and Social Responsibility00:29:38 Brexit: A Journey of Skepticism and Change00:36:14 The Role of Business in Society00:43:43 Navigating Public Life and BacklashKeywords: Brexit, politics, personal values, data privacy, classical liberalism, social responsibility, corporate ethics, government surveillance, community, public policy, business, social responsibility, Brexit, polarization, Jobs Foundation, employment, community, public life, skepticism, social good

Elizabeth speaks with Chine McDonald about her new "Motherhood vs The Machine" podcast, which explores the intersection of motherhood, productivity, technology, and what it means to be human.She discusses the shift in motherhood discourse, womanhood, the challenges of navigating motherhood in professional life, the focus on motherhood vs. parenting, confronting miscarriage and baby loss, and how motherhood can serve as a case study to explore what it means to be human versus machine. Catch the new podcast "Motherhood vs. the Machine" Podcast here 👉 https://tr.ee/y2Z4kmLbNm🎟️ Book your ticket for the SACRED LIVE event: https://linktr.ee/sacredpodcast🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Chine https://x.com/ChineMcDonaldCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to the Motherhood vs. The Machine project02:22 Exploring Motherhood as a Lens 04:56 The Shift in Motherhood Discourse08:01 Embodied Experience of Motherhood10:06 Navigating Professional Life as a Mother13:25 The Particularity of Mothering15:46 Mothering as a Case Study for Humanity18:47 Theological Perspectives on Motherhood21:05 Conversations Across Different Experiences26:16 Reflections on the Podcast JourneyKeywords:motherhood, technology, AI, human experience, parenting, societal change, theological perspectives, maternal experience, work-life balance, grief, productivity, loss, Motherhood, Machine, Technology, Spirituality, Theology, Humanity, AI, Digital, Productivity, Work, Pregnancy, Birthing, Feeding, Death, Grief, Maternal, Identity, Philosophy, Chine, McDonald, Theos, Religion, Society, Podcast, Future, Experience, Personhood, Body, Embodied, Caregiving, Community, Interdependence, Sacred, Divine, Christian, Mysticism, Miscarriage, Loss, Shame, Vulnerability, Growth, Change, Feminist, Postmodernism, Family, Education, Healthcare, Society, Spirituality, Theology, Philosophy, Human, Flourishing, Meaning, Life, Nature, Personhood, Body, Mind, Connection, Caregiving, Community, Interdependence, Sacred, Divine, Christian, Mysticism, Miscarriage, Loss, Shame.#podcast #motherhood

Writer and activist Shane Claiborne calls out the hypocrisy within fundamentalist Evangelical Christianity in America, advocating for a return to the radical compassion of Jesus.Shane challenges what it means to truly be "pro-life," challenges its entanglement with Christian nationalism, and its allegiance to Donald Trump. As he unpacks these priorities, he wrestles with what to keep, what to challenge, and what bones to "spit out” along the way.🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Shane Claiborne: https://www.instagram.com/shane.claiborne/CHAPTERS00:00 Intro01:00 What is Sacred to you? Shane Claiborne Answers02:49 Shane Claiborne's Formative Years06:02 Crisis of Faith and Theological Reflection09:12 The Shift from Cultural Christianity to Authentic Faith12:05 The Encounter with Mother Teresa14:55 The Simple Way Community18:12 Living in Community and Collective Ways29:21 The Importance of Community in Faith34:11 Activism and Moral Superiority39:44 Navigating Injustice and Discomfort44:14 Understanding the Middle East Conflict52:40 The Role of Love in ActivismKeywords:Gun violence, militarism, environmental stewardship, sacredness, humanity, values, childhood, faith, deconstruction, compassion, community, activism, church, communal living, activism, moral superiority, discomfort, Middle East conflict, love, community, social justice, empathy, collective living, Deconstruction, Deconstructing, Questioning, Rethinking, Expanding, Abortion, Sacred, Hypocrisy, Superiority, Nationalism, Religion, Religious, Pro-life, Pro-choice, Fundamentalism, Conservative, Politics, Playbook, Ethics, Activism, Nuanced, Conflict, Humanity, Empathy, Transformation, Justice, Idolatry, Weaponizing, Weaponising, Alliance, Agenda, Co-option, Compassion, Holistic, Systemic, Patriotism, Theological, Community, Expansive, Power, Nationalism, Interpretation, Political, Justification, Spirituality, Grip, Nationalist, Scripture, Tensions, Influence, Alignment, Boundaries, Monopoly, Controversy, Provocative, Challenging, Transformative, Redemptive, Intersectionality, Marginalization, Marginalisation, Oppression, Privilege, Reconciliation, Diversity, Inclusion, Intersections, Intersectional, Racial, Racial-Justice, Equity, Equality, Solidarity, Allyship, Advocacy, Resistance, Decolonization, Decolonisaton, Christianity, Evangelicalism, Faith, Belief, Discipleship, Theology, Scripture, Gospel, Denominationalism, Worship, Spiritual, Devotional, Discipleship, Apologetics.

Announcing a new four-part documentary podcast, Motherhood vs The Machine, where hosts Chine McDonald and Dr Madeleine Pennington look at what motherhood teaches us about what it means to be human.The work of motherhood has always been changed by technological advancement: from the nipple shield to the feeding bottle and breast pump. But as technological advancement accelerates and a future of artificial wombs and ‘bio bags’ does not seem as far-fetched as it once did, what of the humanity of motherhood might be lost if it is outsourced to machines? What might we miss when the maternal doorway is closed to profound and rarely expressed spiritual ideas - such as sacrifice, love, care, value, dignity, and hope?Out weekly from 13 March. Find it on all podcasting platforms.🎙️ Follow Chine McDonald: @ChineMcDonald🎙️ Follow Dr Madeleine Pennington: @mlmpennington💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/

Jameela Jamil joins us for a conversation about her rise to fame, the dangers of divisive echo chambers, and her decision to reject harmful beauty narratives.With her signature wit and vulnerability, Jameela’s dives into toxic beauty standards, the destructive anti-aging narrative that has plagued women for generations, and the deep-rooted values that inspire Jameela to use her platform as a force for positive change.🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Follow Jameela’s Substack ‘A Low Desire to Please’: https://jameelajamil.substack.com/CHAPTERS00:00 What is Sacred to you? Jameela Jamil answers03:10 Childhood Influences and Personal Struggles05:52 Navigating Fame and Misogyny09:03 The Impact of Public Perception11:58 The Journey of Nonviolent Communication15:09 Understanding Human Behaviour and Accountability17:52 The Role of Compassion in Change33:46 Navigating the Middle East Conflict34:00 The Impact of Algorithms on Perception35:20 The Algorithm Swap Experiment39:31 Understanding Polarisation and Loneliness41:09 Building Communities of Care44:01 The Dangers of Short-Form Communication48:02 Understanding Eating Disorders52:00 The Pressure of Beauty Standards on Women56:51 Embracing Aging and Wisdom01:00:15 Finding Freedom in Self-AcceptanceKeywords:Sacred Values, Justice, Childhood Trauma, Public Vulnerability, Misogyny, Nonviolent Communication, Human Behaviour, Social Justice, Personal Growth, Emotional Intelligence, Love, Understanding, Echo Chambers, Algorithms, Loneliness, Community, Eating Disorders, Beauty Standards, Aging, Societal Pressures, Fairness, Authenticity, Vulnerability, Resilience, Advocacy, Nonviolent Communication, Algorithmic Bias, Beauty Standards, Ageism, Eating Disorders, Mental Health, Empowerment, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Social Issues, Feminism, Intersectionality, Public Figure, Celebrity, Self-Acceptance, Body Positivity, Societal Change, Human Connection, Nuance, Complexity, Storytelling, Trauma, Overcoming Adversity, Childhood Experiences, Privilege, Marginalization, Marginalisation, Diversity, Inclusion, Activism, Social Media, Public Perception, Personal Branding, Courage, Honesty, Beauty Norms, Ageism, Challenging Systemic Inequities, Danger, Echo Chambers, Empathetic Communication, Self-Development, Self-Help, Vulnerability, Authenticity, Courage to Redefine Success, Justice, Change.

Elizabeth Oldfield and James Orr discuss the relationship between the sacred and the secular, and his conservative political views on Brexit, and his critique of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion policies.James Orr is the Associate Professor of the Philosophy of Religion at the University of Cambridge.This episode offers a unique and insightful exploration of the sacred in the modern world, touching on themes of tradition, community, and the human condition. It's a must-listen for those interested in philosophy, religion, and the deeper questions of our shared existence!As promised here is a link to Swinburne'sHymn to Prosperine: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45292/hymn-to-proserpine-after-the-proclamation-in-rome-of-the-christian-faithIf you enjoy episodes of The Sacred don't forget to hit subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode!🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/✍️ See James' work: @jtworrKeywords:sacred, secular, enchantment, ordinary, values, virtues, tradition, formative influences, multilingual, boarding school, religion, faith, journey, conservatism, political beliefs, Brexit, class divide, equality, diversity, inclusion, social cohesion, institutional resilience, metaphysical, human dignity, quantitative, philosophy, religion, theology, Christianity, Catholicism, Anglicanism, moral philosophy, ethics, community, belonging, identity, culture, modernism, postmodernism, transcendence, immanence, sacred-secular divide, spiritual, intellectual, cultural, political, social, personal, formation, transformation

ABC Foreign News Correspondent James Longman speaks to Elizabeth Oldfield about the emotional toll he faces as a journalist reporting from war zones, the challenges of being a gay journalist in dangerous regions abroad, and the intergenerational impact of mental illness within his own family. If you enjoy episodes of The Sacred don't forget to hit subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode! 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ See James' new book 'The Inherited Mind': https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/211026628-the-inherited-mind CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:54 What is Sacred to you? James Longman responds 07:03 Childhood Influences and Family Dynamics 14:07 The Impact of Mental Health in Family History 18:58 The Journey into Journalism and Conflict Reporting 24:11 Ethics and Responsibilities in News Reporting 29:51 Cultural and Spiritual Influences on Identity 31:48 Navigating Identity in Hostile Environments 38:02 The Interplay of Genetics and Environment 45:11 Understanding Mental Illness and Suicide 48:30 The Power of Compassionate Support 52:00 Elizabeth's reflection Keywords: kindness, journalism, family, mental health, ethics, conflict reporting, Ukraine, storytelling, hope, authenticity, Catholicism, LGBTQ+, mental health, genetics, suicide, community, love, support, healing, identity, journalist, ethics, war, trauma, resilience, empathy, responsibility, mental, illness, family, spirituality, identity, sexuality, reporting, hope, grief, healing, understanding, community, compassion, depression, suicide, schizophrenia, bipolar, epigenetics, environment, genetics, inherited, sacred, values, storytelling, bearing, witness, gay, international, danger, intergenerational, legacy, support, care, privilege, resources, authenticity, vulnerability, forgiveness, redemption, transformation

Why are resilience and mental health such critical issues for Generation Z? Elizabeth Oldfield and Freya India discuss the influence of social media, individualism, left-wing ideas and changes in parenting on Gen Z. We explore themes such as divorce and family breakdown, the pervasive influence of the mental health narratives on youth and the search for identity and spiritual meaning in a disenchanted world. Freya India is a Gen Z writer and journalist, featured in The Spectator, The New Statesman, The Independent and UnHerd, and known for her popular Substack, GIRLS. If you enjoy episodes of The Sacred don't forget to hit subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode! 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ ✍️ Subscribe to Freya's substack: https://www.freyaindia.co.uk?utm_source=navbar&utm_medium=web Keywords: family, divorce, social media, Generation Z, Gen Z, emotional pain, resilience, societal norms, childhood, identity, mental health, mental health, youth, culture, algorithms, social media, spirituality, community, generational divide, self-help, meaning crisis, instagram, identity, growth, self help, polarisation, conservative, religion

Elizabeth, Dan and Amari discuss various questions from their audience such as, How did Elizabeth find the Atheism debate? How do I navigate uncertainty and doubt in my faith? Will humans always be a bit lonely? Can Christianity be inclusive of other religions? How can we avoid constructing our own God? And more! Chapters 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:08 - How did you find the Atheism panel debate? 00:04:09 - Navigating doubt and uncertainty in faith 00:12:00 - Is loneliness a chronic human problem? 00:18:00 - Authenticity and Self-Work 00:25:00 - Can people from other religions go to heaven? 00:33:00 - Avoiding projection on God 00:39:00 - Praying for specific things 00:45:00 - Prayer as Meditation and Attention Training 00:51:00 - What is Sacred to the Sacred Team? Keywords faith, doubt, community, loneliness, crisis, spirituality, uncertainty, conversion, intimacy, philosophy, Christianity, faith, prayer, inclusivity, exclusivism, Hinduism, spirituality, Jesus, interfaith dialogue, personal belief, sacredness, community, intimacy, loneliness, exclusivism, inclusivity, relationship, projection, prayer, meditation, sacred, dignity, beauty, humanity, theology, philosophy, religion, spirituality, Christianity, Hinduism, interfaith, deconstruction, authenticity, self-work

In this special bonus episode of The Sacred, we are glad to share a conversation Elizabeth had with writer and podcaster Clementine Morrigan on her podcast 'Fucking Cancelled'. In this conversation they discussed Elizabeth's book Fully Alive, taking a deep dive into her thinking around Lust, Wrath and what Christian's mean by 'God' at all. Clementine is a former guest on The Sacred. Be sure to check out her episode discussing trauma, alcohol recovery, and challenging cancel culture from the left here: https://podcasts.apple.com/be/podcast/clementine-morrigan-on-trauma-alcohol-recovery-and/id1326888108?i=1000645258658 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 🎙️ Follow Fucking Cancelled: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/fucking-cancelled/id1549437914 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/

Send us your questions and thoughts that you'd like Elizabeth (+ the wider team) to cover in an upcoming Q+A episode! 💌 Whether it’s a question relating to an episode or guest, questions for our production team or about the Sacred project, we'd love to hear your thoughts. We'd happily accept voice notes or videos too. 📩 How to Send Your Questions: - Drop them in the comments below - DM us on X or Instagram - Email us at [email protected] 📢 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you don’t miss your question being answered

Elizabeth Oldfield joins panel of leading thinkers from across the philosophical and religious spectrum come together to grapple with some of life's biggest questions on God, atheism, and the meaning of life. The panelists - including Elizabeth Oldfield, Rowan Williams, Alex O'Connor, and Philip Goff - engage in a lively debate exploring the origins of the universe, the problem of suffering, and the search for meaning and purpose. If you enjoy episodes of The Sacred please do subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode! 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ Keywords: God, Atheism, Theism, Christianity, Philosophy of religion, Meaning of life, Purpose of existence, Suffering, Problem of evil, Fine-tuning of the universe, Intelligent design, Creationism, Naturalism, Gnosticism, Cosmology, Metaphysics, Epistemology, Theology, Spiritual, Religious, Debate, Panel discussion, Royal Institution, Elizabeth Oldfield, Rowan Williams, Alex O'Connor (aka Cosmic Skeptic), Philip Gough, Faith, Belief, Doubt, Uncertainty, Morality, Ethics, Consciousness, Cosmos, Transcendence, Immanence, Relationship with God, Mysticism, Heresy

Why do we so often surround ourselves with people just like us? In this thought-provoking conversation, Elizabeth Oldfield speaks to author and social innovator Jon Yates about how 'people like me' syndrome plays out in our personal lives, communities, and society at large. We have noticed this theme pop up numerous times in our latest series and so join us as we look back on series 11 and explore the dangers of living in echo chambers, our innate desire for acceptance and discuss practical ways we can overcome our natural inclination towards the familiar and embrace meaningful connections across difference. If you enjoy episodes of The Sacred don't forget to hit subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode! 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 📕 See Jon Yates' Work: https://jonyates.org/ Keywords: Division, polarization, polarisation, homophily, bias, diversity, inclusion, empathy, understanding, connection, relationships, community, social dynamics, tribalism, echo chambers, prejudice, acceptance, belonging, difference, similarity, societal issues, conflict resolution, reconciliation, moral judgment, moral agency, parenting, authoritative, permissive, principles, values, discourse, perspective-taking, curiosity, vulnerability, insecurity, rejection, anxiety, comfort zone, interpersonal dynamics, social psychology, behavioural economics, behavioral economics, organisational behaviour, organizational behavior, civic engagement, social cohesion, collective identity, intergroup relations, bridging divides, shared experiences, common ground, nuance, emotional intelligence, community projects, youth charity, Youth Endowment Fund, division, people like me syndrome, social mobility, empathy and curiosity, moral agency, authoritative parenting, shared institutions, digital echo chambers, emotional challenge, moral value, societal division

Daryl Davis shares a unique perspective on the motivations behind white supremacy and what it takes to see the gradual transformation of KKK members. Hosts Elizabeth Oldfield and Alex Evans, delve into the extraordinary story of Daryl Davis, a Blues musician who has spent decades befriending and dialoguing with members of the Ku Klux Klan. Driven by a deep curiosity to understand the roots of racism, Daryl has taken an unconventional approach, choosing empathy and open communication over confrontation. Discover the profound impact one person can have in bridging the divide and fostering greater understanding between communities. If you enjoy episodes of The Sacred don't forget to hit subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode! 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 📕 See Daryl's work: https://www.daryldavis.com/

Sarah Ditum delves into her journey through the strands of feminism, the misogynistic "upskirt decade" - the invasive celebrity culture of the late 90s and 2000s that often exploited and shamed young women, and her views on the role of pornography and its impact on mainstream culture. Sarah is a critic and columnist for The Times and The Sunday Times, and author of the book "Toxic: Women and the Noughties." This wide-ranging conversation provides a nuanced look at the evolution of feminist thought, the power of media narratives, and the personal experiences that have informed Sarah Ditum's worldview. If you enjoy episodes of The Sacred don't forget to hit subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode! 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 📕 See Sarah's book "Toxic: Women, Fame, and the Tabloid 2000s": https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61783796-toxic Referenced text: Choice Feminism and the Fear of Politics http://www.jstor.org/stable/25698532 CHAPTERS 00:00 What is Sacred to you? Sarah Ditum answers 02:54 Navigating Gender Identity and Journalism 06:14 The Importance of Disagreement in Politics 09:10 Childhood Influences and Upbringing 11:48 Feminism and Personal Identity 15:11 The Impact of Motherhood on Feminist Views 19:11 The Upskirt Decade: Media and Women 28:03 The Intersection of Privacy and Gender 34:03 The Reasonable Expectation of Privacy 35:56 Cultural Norms and the Sexualisation of Women 39:05 Cultural Poisoning and Media Influence 41:53 Nihilism and the Impact of 9/11 on Culture 44:10 Changing Narratives: Celebrity Women Today 47:59 The Evolution of Language Around Abuse 51:21 The Normalisation of Sexualisation and Pornography 57:50 The Exploitative Nature of the Porn Industry 01:01:35 Cultural Stories and Their Impact on Identity Keywords pornography, feminism, gender identity, motherhood, media, privacy, women's rights, sacred values, upskirt decade, journalism, privacy, cultural norms, sexualization, sexualisation, media influence, nihilism, celebrity culture, abuse language, pornography, exploitation, identity

Rod Dreher and Elizabeth Oldfield delve into Rod's coverage of the Catholic sex abuse scandal, converting to Eastern Orthodoxy, his views on immigration and Donald Trump and supernatural experiences. If you enjoy episodes of The Sacred don't forget to hit subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode! 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 📕 See Rod Dreher's new book 'Living in Wonder: Finding Mystery and Meaning in a Secular Age' CHAPTERS 00:00:00 What is Sacred to you? Rod Dreher answers 00:06:28 Family, Place, and the Weight of Expectations 00:10:16 Moral Foundations and Personal Crisis 00:17:54 The Benedict Option: A Call to Intentional Living 00:26:25 The Journey to Orthodoxy and the Search for Transcendence 00:30:39 Living in Wonder: Rediscovering the Enchanted World 00:33:03 The Unseen Battle: Spiritual Awareness 00:36:44 Encounters with the Divine: Transformative Stories 00:39:41 Spiritual climate 00:43:03 Conservative politics, Trump and faith 00:48:42 The willingness to suffer for your beliefs Keywords: Dreher, Christian, Orthodox, Conversion, Benedict, Community, Spiritual, Moral, Innocence, Hierarchy, Southern, Humour, Family, Idolatry, Abuse, Authority, Storytelling, Enchantment, Beauty, Supernatural, Politics, Immigration, Vulnerability, Suffering, Humility, Compassion, Culture, Havel, Reverence, Resilience, Conservative, Trump, Rod Dreher, Exorcism, Spiritual Warfare, sexual abuse, catholic church, scandal, faith, crisis, immigration, eastern orthodox, spirituality, spiritual battle, innocence of children, family values, moral foundations, Benedict Option, Eastern Orthodoxy, living in wonder, transcendence, core values, intentional living, spirituality, exorcism, divine encounters, political theology, vulnerability, Christianity, paganism, public witness, supernatural, cultural engagement

Father James Martin and our host, Elizabeth Oldfield discuss his journey to becoming a Catholic priest and the Jesuit motto of finding God in everything. We spoke about the difficulty of living a life of chastity, becoming a vocal advocate for LGBTQ inclusion within the Catholic Church and navigating backlash as a public figure. If you enjoy episodes of The Sacred don't forget to hit subscribe to be notified whenever we release an episode! 🎙️ Follow The Sacred: linktr.ee/sacredpodcast 📖 Follow Elizabeth Oldfield: www.elizabetholdfield.com/ 💡 Produced by the ‪@thinktanktheos‬ www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ 📕 Purchase Fr James Martin's new book 'Come Forth' here: https://www.eden.co.uk/christian-books/bible-study/academic-bible-study/come-forth/ CHAPTERS 00:00 What is Sacred to you? Father James Martin replies 00:54 Understanding the Sacred 02:50 The Role of Discernment in Life 05:46 Childhood Influences and Early Life 09:08 Transitioning from Business to Jesuit Life 11:56 Exploring Religious Orders 14:51 Community Living and Its Challenges 18:10 Chastity is difficult 20:05 Having a public voice 23:00 Advocacy for the LGBTQ Community 27:16 Spiritual Rejection and backlash 32:06 Understanding Radicalisation and Disagreement 34:32 The Role of Politics in Division 38:58 Finding the Balance in Discourse 40:24 Exploring the Themes of 'Come Forth' 44:44 Jesuit Wisdom on Understanding Others 49:06 The Importance of Connection in Disagreement --- Keywords Compassion, Catholic, Jesuit, Priest, Humanity, Monastic, Despair, Hope, Jesus, Catholic, Religion, Theology, Spirituality, Ministry, Pastoral, Devotion, Morality, Ethics, Belief, Tradition, Contemplation, Mysticism, Interfaith, Ecumenical, Jesuit priest, Catholic spirituality, Finding God in all things, Discernment of spirits, LGBTQ advocacy in the Catholic Church, Navigating controversy and criticism, Chastity and religious life, Compassion and empathy in faith, Bridging divides and understanding differences, Vocation and calling, Spirituality and everyday life, Theological perspectives on Jesus's humanity, Intentional community and monastic living, division, politics, listening, relationship, Overcoming despair and cultivating hope, Balancing public ministry and personal faith, Lessons in listening and giving the benefit of the doubt, Exploring sacred and secular in modern life, Insights from a Jesuit priest and author, Navigating faith, difference, and social justice, Transformative spiritual journeys