Going Nowhere

In the second part of our conversation with Brandon & Colby, we delve into the practical impact of queer theology, the paradigm shift in sexual and relational ethics, and the evolving nature of Christianity. We also continue to explore the distinction between affirming theology and queer theology, as well as the upcoming work and books of both our guests.TakeawaysQueer theology as a paradigmNegotiated trust in relationshipsQueer theology as a permission giverEthical non-monogamy and polyamory under the queer umbrellaChristianity as a river, not a lakeThe evolving nature of ChristianityThe invitation to consider LGBTQ affirming ChristianityChapters00:00 Introduction to Queer Theology07:19 Ethical Non-Monogamy and Polyamory13:33 The Paradigm Shift in Sexual and Relational Ethics20:17 Affirming Theology vs. Queer Theology26:22 Upcoming Work and Books

In the first of a two-part conversation, LB & Cynthia are joined by Brandon Robertson and Colby Martin to talk about Queer Theology in theory. This winding conversation touches on the emerging distinction between "affirming" and "queer" theology. The insights and perspectives from both straight and LGBTQ+ perspectives are a treasure!TakeawaysQueer theology challenges conformity and questions norms.The term 'queer' is a political and social disposition before it is a label for an identity.

Ever felt like joy is just out of reach? You're not alone. Let’s dive deep into those little moments that lift us. Tag someone who needs this reminder! 💖 In a world that often feels overwhelming, how do we find joy? This question has been at the forefront of many minds, especially after a year filled with challenges. In this episode, we'll explore insights from Mason Menenga, who shares his journey of discovering joy amidst difficulties, and how doctine and theology both help and get in the way!## About Mason MenengaMason Menenga is the host of the People's Theology podcast and a voice of reason in turbulent times. With a background in theology and a passion for storytelling, he brings a unique perspective to the conversation about joy and resilience. His experiences resonate with many, especially those who have faced their own challenges.http://instagram.com/masonmennengahttp://twitter.com/masonmennengahttps://www.youtube.com/masonmennenga

Live from the podcast stage at the Q Christian Fellowship conference in Portland, OR. Cythina and Laura Beth are joined by Haley Warner and Bridget Black to kick off a new season of Going Nowhere. We took some time to wrap up our conversation about Peace as a Path of Resistance and introduced the new topic of Joy as resistance (or in Cynthia's case, a resistance to Joy!) TakeawaysPeace as a path of resistanceThe sensorial experience of joy and peaceThe role of love in grounding joy and peace Grounding in peace and joy goes beyond feelings and is rooted in a state of being.Peace and joy are interdependently connected and are found within a community.Living a spiritual life is defined as living in community, emphasizing the importance of communal support and connection.

This is the last full episode of season 1! We will see you soon on the podcast stage of the QCF Conference where we will reflect on our conversations and look ahead to season 2.In this episode (which we recorded last summer), our guests, Michelle and Clee, share their experience of navigating the transgender experience in both family and church environments.

Cynthia and Laura Beth are joined once again by Rachel Hall, aka Mariela for the premiere of her her brand new album, Underglow. Chapters (00:00:14) - Coming soon: Somewhere Special(00:00:28) - Rachel Hall Returns as a Repeat Guest(00:01:01) - Talking To Cynthia on Her New Album(00:01:52) - Mariella's New Album The Underglow(00:03:43) - The Underglow(00:10:13) - On Fall In Love Again and The Album(00:14:01) - The Importance of Female Friendships(00:17:56) - San Diego's LGBT Music Community(00:22:57) - Panic at the Disco on The Music(00:26:17) - Raspberry Management: A Queer Women's Music Collective(00:29:08) - Never Fall In Love Again

In this conversation, Cynthia and Laura Beth talk with Rev. Dr. Marian Edmonds-Allen about change, healing, and the importance of community in the context of LGBTQ+ advocacy and spirituality. They discuss personal journeys of acceptance, the significance of creating safe spaces, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in faith communities. Marion brings a perspective of optimism and resilience, highlighting the need for allies and the power of love in bridging divides. The conversation emphasizes the importance of navigating trauma, fostering understanding, and celebrating small victories in the ongoing journey toward inclusivity and acceptance. Chapters (00:00:18) - We Were Everywhere(00:00:46) - Back to Business as usual(00:02:04) - Exploring the Ghost of My Home(00:05:21) - The Need for Space(00:08:37) - The Reverend Dr. Marianne Edmonds(00:10:24) - Welcome to Nowhere(00:12:26) - A Live Event With a Live Audience(00:12:55) - Interviewing Marianne Jones(00:14:22) - Pastor on the challenges of LGBT people(00:21:55) - Bridge Builder's Question(00:24:13) - Building bridges in the LGBT community(00:28:40) - One Utah mom's story of homelessness(00:33:32) - Reveal: A Child's Journey to Her Parents(00:34:06) - Lesbian Voices on Utah's Homelessness(00:40:00) - The Search for Love in the World(00:41:52) - On Peace and the Path to Resistance(00:43:33) - Marian on Peace Building(00:52:38) - Stuck in the Church: Laura Beth and Marian(00:57:30) - Coming Out: The Moment When God Said He's Okay With Me(01:02:48) - "Gay People Are Welcome in My Church"(01:04:33) - Marionette on Learning to Play the Drum(01:06:53) - milo at a drum circle

In this episode, Cynthia and LB introduce the Coalition for Peace and Restoration, a community-focused organization promoting holistic wellness through the integration of body, soul, and spirit. They explore the vision behind the coalition, its inclusive approach to supporting the queer community and those adjacent to it, and the importance of creating a safe space for healing and spiritual development. The conversation highlights the coalition's activities, future aspirations, and the call for community involvement. Chapters (00:00:21) - Today's Podcast: We Are Actually Somewhere(00:01:14) - The Coalition for Peace and Restoration(00:05:00) - Reverend Laura Beth Buckleiter on Being the Right Reverend(00:06:08) - The Coalition for Peace and Restoration: Co-creator for Administration(00:06:54) - What is the Coalition for Peace and Restoration?(00:12:25) - The Journey of the Queer Coalition(00:16:41) - What is the Queer-Queer Community?(00:20:56) - The Coalition for Peace and Restoration: Future Plans(00:27:05) - A Place for Spiritual Healing for Pastors(00:32:49) - The need for a spiritual space(00:35:21) - Exploring Wholeness in the Coalition(00:37:46) - Spiritual Health: Body and Soul(00:44:39) - The Center for Peace and Restoration: Opening Soon(00:48:41) - Countdown to the Recovery Cafe(00:53:30) - Crowds At Paralympics(00:53:39) - The End of My Board Seat(00:58:17) - The Center for Peace and Restoration(01:00:11) - The Flaming Grant Concert(01:02:02) - Space for the Soul

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In this conversation, Rachel Hall, a queer and trans singer-songwriter, shares her journey of self-discovery, the importance of community, and the impact of political climate on her art. She discusses the complexities of family dynamics, the grief associated with her transition, and the significance of representation in the trans community. Rachel emphasizes the need to decentralize romantic relationships and highlights the hope that exists even amidst loss. Her upcoming projects and involvement in Pride events reflect her commitment to visibility and celebration of queer identities. https://mariela.band/   Chapters (00:00:08) - Going Nowhere(00:02:34) - Pod interview: Flaming Grant and More(00:04:48) - Nowhere in Nowhere(00:06:29) - Rachel Hall on Going Nowhere(00:07:54) - Rachel on Wonders(00:10:12) - How Are You Coping With the Trump Era?(00:12:41) - Finding Your People(00:19:06) - Coming Out: The Epiphany and Grief(00:25:49) - Mariah on The Story of Her Transition(00:36:42) - Dear Rachel: Please Have A Happy Ending(00:40:16) - You're a Trans Artist on Social Media(00:48:45) - Mariah Carey on Her New Single 'Girls Of Summer'(00:50:58) - A Side Quest for Cynthia(00:53:03) - Rachel's

In this conversation, Laura Beth and Cynthia welcome pastor, author, and advocate, Sarah Griffiths Lund to talk about her recently released book, Blessed Minds: Breaking the Silence About Neurodiversity. Sarah's book is a wonderful introduction to understanding the beauty and complexity of neurodiversity in all the ways it shows up - especially from the perspective of leading faith community. We talk about the intersection of mental health, neurodiversity, and the LGBTQ+ community, and wanted to include this contact for the Trevor Project, a resource for those in the community struggling with a variety of issues: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/ Other Links: Rev. Dr. Sarah Griffiths Lund Cyntia Vacca Davis Laura Beth Buchleiter

In this engaging conversation, Derek Webb discusses his journey as an artist, the importance of authenticity in creativity, and the urgency of addressing issues within the LGBTQ+ community through his music. The dialogue explores the complexities of navigating societal expectations while remaining true to oneself, emphasizing the power of vulnerability and community support. Webb shares insights on his latest project, 'Survival Songs,' which aims to provide a voice for those in need and highlights the significance of small acts of kindness in making a difference. https://www.derekwebb.com/

Cynthia and Laura Beth are back to explore the themes of chaos, peace, and the importance of connection in a world filled with uncertainty. Poet, advocate, and extraordinary human Marla Taviano joins the discussion, sharing her experiences of deconstruction and the transformative power of embracing one's authentic self as she shares stories of her life and the poetry that flows from it. for more about Laura Beth: https://laura-bethany.com/creativeworks/podcasts/ for more about Cynthia: https://cynthiavaccadavis.com/ for more about Marla: https://itsmemarla.com/  

Cynthia and Laura Beth are back to Nowhere with Rev. Dr. Jessica LeCrone. Jessica is a minister in the United Methodist Church with Masters of Divinity and Masters of Library and Information Science degrees. She combined all that learning and life experience into her DMin dissertation which focused on the growing challenges of Misinformation, specifically as it relates to churches, clergy, and social media.

The conversation about what we are even doing here continues as Cynthia interviews Laura Beth.

In our first venture on the journey to being "nowhere" (i.e. present in the moment), co-hosts Cynthia Vacca Davis and Laura Beth Buchleiter interview each other and explore what has inspired this project.