The Contemplative Life

The Contemplative Life

This podcast explores the wide variety of contemplative practices for our modern world.

Episodes

September 2, 2025 22 mins

Today we discuss the value of integrating special experiences and learnings into our daily lives.  We look at some examples from our own lives, as well as beginning to explore Ken Wilbur’s Integral Theory.  



Mentioned in this episode:

What I Am Into:

Backgammon 


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Today we look at perspectives from philosopher, Albert Borgman and historian, Daniel Immerwahr.   We see how history reveals that what was once deemed as a “threat” to flourishing is now seen as a focal practice.  Join us as we wrestle with some of our thoughts and experiences around what it means to experience connection, embodiment, creativity and attention in our modern world.



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 Alejandro Rodriguez joins us today to talk about discovering contemplative paths in the midst of a corporate lifestyle.  We explore both the healthy and shadow sides of ambition and accomplishment. 


Learn more about Alejandro’s current work at yesandsc.com

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July 22, 2025 23 mins

Join us today as we explore ways we are noticing AI coming into our contemplative spaces.  What are the opportunities? What are some of the shadow sides? We look at ways we can grow in our awareness of this aspect of life that is rapidly growing. 


For those interested in learning more about this topic, we did a previous episode in early 2024, E 162 Thoughts on AI. 

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July 8, 2025 19 mins

Today we explore the topic of places and the ways that places have impacted us.  

We discuss  4 types of travel and the impact it makes in our lives.


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Today we are sharing some reflections from Part 1 and Part 2 of the sample spiritual direction sessions.  These episodes were recorded in partnership with Spiritual Directors International.  Tune in to hear some of Christina and Matt’s takeaways from the experience.

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Today we are sharing an episode that was recorded in partnership with Spiritual Directors International (SDI).   In Part 1, Christina Roberts was in the role of a spiritual guide with Matt.  Today Matt is the spiritual guide and Christina has given permission to share the session on the podcast as an example.  Enjoy.


(link) E 224 Sample Spiritual Direction Session, Part 1

sdicompanions.org


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Today we are sharing an episode that was recorded in partnership with Spiritual Directors International (SDI).   In Part 1, Christina Roberts is in the role of a spiritual guide with Matt, who has given permission to share the session on the podcast as an example. Next week, the roles will switch.  Enjoy.

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May 27, 2025 24 mins

Legacy Letters


Today we discuss Legacy Letters with spiritual director, Robin Clossman.  We explore how time reviews and photos can be a gateway into sharing legacies with those we love.   These ideas translate to any decade of life.


Connect with Robin to learn more at:

robin@wcitech.net


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Today we talk about ways that spiritual guidance shows up in our everyday lives- at home, work, with neighbors.  We explore both the informal settings for deep listening and how these practices can change our daily interactions.


For more information, go to thecontemplativelife.net

or email robertscontemplative@gmail.com

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April 29, 2025 21 mins

Today we explore how music connects us to God and the many ways music is prayer.  Whether you play music or simply listen, we hope you find new ways of experiencing meaningful spiritual moments.


Mentioned in this episode:

Marimbas

Candle making supplies

Fountain pens ink

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April 22, 2025 18 mins

Join us as we unpack various types of rest.  Rest is not just taking a nap, but includes a variety of ways to find rejuvenation and restoration in our lives. 

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April 15, 2025 19 mins

Today we continue our conversation about rest and look at common barriers we might face.  As we highlight barriers we have faced, we hope you find inspiration to identify and move towards flourishing times of renewal in your life.

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April 8, 2025 14 mins

Today we discuss common paradigms and mindsets around rest and renewal.  We hope this helps us become aware of how we approach rest and expand how we engage.

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Today we are exploring the idea of fixing compared to listening.  To help us on this topic, we are revisiting a previous conversation with spiritual director and supervisor Marcia Bentley.  

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Today we wrap up our series on art and contemplative with guest Sarah Bianchi. Join us as we talk about liturgy that first nourishes our own souls and from that deep space then sharing with others.


Follow Sarah at:


artbysarahkay.com


IG:  Artbyskay 

FB:  SarahKay


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Today we explore photography and how it can be a doorway into contemplative spirituality.  As we have increasing access to photos on our phones, we hope this episode inspires you to engage in new ways.


Resources mentioned in this episode:

 The Practice of Contemplative Photography  by Andy Karr & Michael Woods


Jameshazelwood.net/blog

Miksang.com


Connect with Ann:


usheringgrace@gmail.com  


https://www.mkespirit...

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Today we are joined by the Creative Director of Spiritual Directors International, Matt Whitney.  We explore the intersection of art, nature, movement and spirituality.   To learn more about Matt’s work and his art, connect at  matthewwhitney.com or follow on Instagram  @mattpwhitney

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February 25, 2025 20 mins

Join us as we talk about the differences between time and energy and how to make the most of our natural energy rhythms. 

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Join us as we explore body-mind-spirit connections with licensed Physical Therapist, Shannon Kunstman.  We discuss the importance of integrative body work with spiritual guidance.  To learn more, connect with Shannon at https://www.awarenessinmotionpt.com/about

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