For Your Summer Listening
Whoever has ears, let them hear! (Sorry, couldn't resist.)
In the past week my children were kind enough to keep quiet—or rather down to a dull roar—while I recorded several podcasts, including Messy Jesus Business and Church Life Today from the University of Notre Dame. Whenever I daydream about starting a podcast, I remember how much I love listening instead.
Podcasts are the only reason I enjoy doing the laundry or cleaning up the kitchen late at night. I’m whisked away to another world as soon as I push play. Next thing I know, the chaos has transformed to clean and I’m filled with fresh thoughts.
If you have housework you’d rather escape, a long commute you’ve taken up again, or a thirst for thoughtful conversations, here are a few podcasts I’ve enjoyed lately.
Start here:
A friend shared this Word on Fire episode about social media and artificial intelligence. No exaggeration to say this changed the way I engage and create online.
On grief:
I regularly listen to Everything Happens with Kate Bowler, and her episodes with Suleika Jaouad were fantastic, especially if you’re wrestling with suffering. Also loved my friend Leticia’s story of her son Anthony on Terrible, Thanks For Asking.
On parenting:
The Good Shepherd & The Child is a master class in the Montessori-based approach to faith formation, but this podcast is also a great listen on theology, Scripture, and life with young children. If you’re combining parenting and creativity, the Artist/Mother Podcast offers practical tips and artistic inspiration for weaving multiple callings.
On justice:
Upside Down Podcast remains a favorite for ecumenical conversations around faith & justice. Lately I’m loving The Gloria Purvis Podcast and Gloria’s willingness to tackle the thorniest conversations in the church today. If you haven’t yet listened to Nice White Parents, summer’s a great time to sit with hard questions of why schools are the way they are—and what we might do about it.
On culture:
On Being is my go-to listen for intriguing conversations with poets, scientists, authors, and thoughtful leaders. But this summer I’ve been devouring Kelly Corrigan Wonders. She’s wise and sharp-witted and her guests are, too. (I especially loved her series on family relationships with Anna Quindlen.)
What’s your favorite podcast? Drop a suggestion—or your own work—here.
Peace,
Laura
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Find my books here: Everyday Sacrament | Grieving Together | Prayers for Pregnancy & Birth | To Bless Our Callings | Living Your Discipleship