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The Sacred

Theos Think Tank

A podcast about our Sacred values and how we can talk to people who are different from ourselves.

Each episode features a conversation with someone who has a public voice, from academics to journalists, playwrights and politicians. We ask them where they have come from, what they are trying to do and what might help heal our very divided public conversations.

The Sacred is hosted by Elizabeth Oldfield and produced in partnership with Comment Magazine, and with support from The Jerusalem Trust and Open Society Foundation

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  • 245 episodes
  • Updated Wednesday

Episodes245

Newest first
  • Nov 5, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min

    Documenting Cults, Killers & White Supremacists with Mobeen Azhar

    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-gb Keywords: 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.

  • Oct 22, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min

    The Healing Power of Humour in Grief with Cariad Lloyd

    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/griefcast Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:42 What is Sacred to you? Cariad Lloyd answers 11:43 Growing up spiritual 18:30 Grief, Spirituality and Doubt 24:32 Grief becomes a part of you 27:14 The Role of Comedy in Grief 35:00 Sharing Grief Stories 38:52 How to be there for people who are grieving 44:07 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

  • Oct 15, 2025 · 1 hr 12 min

    Why We Need to Talk About Class, Privilege, and Race with Jeffrey Boakye

    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/jeffreykboakye Chapters: 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - What is Sacred to you? Jeffrey Boakye answers 06:23 - Growing up in Brixton as a Ghanaian Catholic 15:30 - Cultural Identities: Black Britishness and Jamaican youth culture 26:00 - “I became a white woman” teaching while Black 33:00 - Why conversations about race make us defensive and what to do about it 42:00 - Power, fear, and the culture wars 50:00 - Why it’s race and class - not race or class 55:47 - Class and it's connection to the slave trade 56:27 - Anti-immigrant propaganda targeted at the working class 57:54 - Reflection by Elizabeth Keywords: 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

  • Oct 1, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min

    Trees, Magic, and Why Ancient Wisdom Still Matters with Philip Carr-Gomm

    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 today This 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/ Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:10 What is Sacred to you? Philip Carr-Gomm answers 03:00 Why Trees Hold the Secret to Spiritual Enlightenment 09:00 The Influences of a Druid's Childhood 18:00 Diversity and Inclusivity in Druidry 27:00 Art and Nature Collide: The Untold Story of Druidry 36:00 Magic and The Transformative Secrets of Druidry 45:00 Masculine and Feminine Energies 54:00 Druidry's Historical Tapestry 01:03:00 The Divine Child: A Controversial Bridge Between Faiths 01:12:00 Gender in Spirituality: The Debate That’s Changing Everything 01:21:00 Can Spiritual Dialogue Break Down Barriers? Keywords In 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.

  • Sep 24, 2025 · 53 min

    Immigration: Fear, Compassion and the Real Enemy with Rod Dreher and Elizabeth Oldfield

    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

  • Sep 17, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min

    The Hidden Cost of Being a Content Creator | Jade Bowler (UnjadedJade) on Burnout, Loneliness & the Authenticity Battle

    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 @findingyourcasualmagic Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:16 What is Sacred to you? Jade Bowler Answers 02:35 Craving connection and finding it online 08:30 Jade reflects on her parents’ contrasting influences 11:11 Bullied for being "too academic" 13:53 Starting StudyTube at 16:56 The weight of fame, influence and responsibility 20:15 Algorithmic pressure vs creativity 26:10 Authenticity vs. Performance online 32:15 Searching to fill the wisdom-gap 38:11 Coming out online and internalised homophobia 43:52 The hidden cost of being a creator Keywords Jade 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.

  • Sep 10, 2025 · 44 min

    Ask Me Anything | Forgiveness, Comparison & Finding Community with Elizabeth Oldfield & Joe Downy

    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.

  • Aug 21, 2025 · 2 min

    Ask Us a Question👇

    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 thesacredpodcast@gmail.com Speak soon, Elizabeth & The Sacred Team

  • Aug 6, 2025 · 18 min

    Why Connection Matters Most in Crisis

    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 blame The “polycrisis” and our collective fight-or-flight How contempt sneaks in and empathy fades Whether old spiritual traditions still have anything to offer And 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.

  • Jul 30, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min

    From Republican Darling to Political Outcast with David French

    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=en Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:07 What is Sacred to you? David French answers 01:29 Defining Virtue in American Society 06:26 When Have Your Virtues Been Tested? 14:42 Formative Experiences and Moral Foundations 18:40 Political Awakening and Conservative Values 27:27 The Role of Civil Liberties in Society 30:47 The Importance of Defending Difficult Speech 33:31 The Importance of Free Speech 36:39 Serving in the Iraq war 39:52 Transformative Experiences of War 44:10 Political Identity and Church Community Rejection 50:49 The Impact of Community Rejection 54:52 Staying True to Principles Over Tribes Keywords: 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.

  • Jul 16, 2025 · 1 hr

    What’s Driving Young Men to Conservatism? Daniel Turner on Masculinity, Abortion & A Crisis of Faith

    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 Intro 1:19 What is Sacred to you? Daniel Turner answers 2:23 Fighting to remain curious 3:33 Growing up in a religious community 6:28 Why did you leave the community? 9:32 Moral failures within the church 10:30 Difficulty reengaging with church 12:10 Is there a "quiet revival" in church? 15:15 Getting married and having children young 20:36 Parenthood and purpose 22:58 The "manosphere" and masculinity 27:13 Thoughts on Jordan Peterson 28:28 Curiosity towards Andrew Tate 32:00 Choosing Sacred guests 34:00 Gen Z: apathy, escapism and polarisation 37:29 The Pro-Life Perspective: Community and Support 45:29 Final reflections on Three Years with The Sacred Key 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.

  • Jul 9, 2025 · 1 hr

    Seeking Goodness When Good is Losing with Christine Emba

    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=en Keywords: 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

  • Jul 2, 2025 · 58 min

    Why Western Wellness Can’t Heal Us: Fariha Róisín on Trauma, Islam & Capitalism

    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=en Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:21 What is Sacred to you? Fariha Answers 04:51 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact 08:54 Islam and Personal Identity 15:26 Queerness and Faith 20:50 The Intersection of Wellness and Spirituality 29:10 Rituals and Agency in Modern Life 32:45 Discerning Wellness: A Critical Perspective 36:08 The Role of Spirituality and Healing Modalities 40:12 Ayahuasca: A Transformative Experience 50:07 Reflections on Faith and Historical Contexts Keywords: 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.

  • Jun 18, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min

    Why a Gay Atheist Still Believes Christianity Matters – with Jonathan Rauch

    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=en Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:57 What is Sacred to you? Jonathan Rauch answers 02:48 Childhood Influences and Jewish Identity 05:58 Feeling on the outside 06:58 Trying to be religious 08:47 The Fight for Free Speech and Liberalism 11:52 The Journey to Same-Sex Marriage Advocacy 15:06 Navigating Personal and Public Identity 17:57 Understanding Anger and Tolerance in Debate 19:44 Denial and Acceptance of Same-Sex Attraction 34:28 Advocating for Christianity as an Atheist 36:14 The Consequences of Secularisation 38:19 The Role of Christianity in Democracy 40:42 Core Teachings of Christianity and Liberalism 47:21 The Need for Christianity in Secular Society 51:13 The Search for Transcendence 54:34 Messages for Secular Liberals and Christians Keywords: 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

  • Jun 4, 2025 · 1 hr 41 min

    Caitlin Moran on the Masculinity Crisis, Raising Boys & the Manosphere

    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 event Chapters 00:00 Exploring Gender: The Unasked Questions 01:54 The Sacred Values: Making People Feel Better 04:53 Childhood Influences: A Unique Upbringing 09:51 The Journey of a Writer: From Music Journalism to Feminism 18:00 The Impact of 'How to Be a Woman' and Public Perception 27:01 The Responsibility of Influence: Navigating Public Opinion 28:49 The Art of Persuasion in Writing 30:42 Hospitality in Communication 31:36 The Importance of Awareness 33:13 Navigating Tone and Authenticity 34:54 The Journey to the Times 36:49 Exploring Feminism and Masculinity 37:47 Cultural Shifts in Gender Perception 39:41 Addressing the Crisis of Masculinity 41:31 Feminism's Role in Men's Issues43:16 The Backlash Against Men's Conversations 45:18 The Lack of Resources for Men 47:09 Expanding the Conversation 49:21 Finding Purpose in Modern Society 50:55 The Quest for Meaning 52:45 Cinematic Narratives for Boys and Heroic Archetypes 56:51 The Stiff Upper Lip Mentality 58:34 The Importance of VulnerabilityAudience Q+A 01:02:35 Are there unique differences between men and women? 01:07:21 The Interior Lives of Men 01:10:58 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 care 01:28:40 Elizabeth Oldfield's reflection Keywords: 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?

  • May 21, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min

    How to Find Meaning in the Life You Already Have | Joshua Luke Smith

    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

  • May 7, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min

    Gen Z Christian Revival? What I Learnt Living Amongst Young Christian Converts

    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-gb CHAPTERS00:00 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 Writing KEYWORDSfaith, 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

  • Apr 30, 2025 · 12 min

    Don't Stop Listening to Conservative Voices: a Sacred Reflection

    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/ CHAPTERS 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:54 The Challenge of Listening to Different Voices 00:08:00 Our Audience is Finding Listening Harder Lately 00:06:07 Navigating Discomfort 00:08:58 Finding Common Ground in Complexity KEYWORDS Curiosity, 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.

  • Apr 23, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min

    Israel-Gaza: Can two things be true? With Richard Allen Greene

    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

  • Apr 9, 2025 · 56 min

    From Foster Care to Olympic Gold with Kriss Akabusi

    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.... CHAPTERS 00:00:00 Come to The Sacred Live! 00:00:32 Intro 00:01:32 What is Sacred to you? Kriss Akabusi answers 00:03:02 Childhood Influences 00:05:46 Family Background and Nigerian Heritage 00:09:40 Experiences in Children's Home and Care System 00:12:48 Turning Point: A Moment of Realisation 00:17:04 Reunion with Mother and Cultural Disconnection 00:22:14 Understanding Parental Sacrifices and Forgiveness 00:23:02 Transition to Adulthood and Name Change 00:25:32 Life in the Army and Discovering Athletic Talent 00:27:55 Finding Purpose Through Sport 00:29:04 The 1991 Relay Race: A Game-Changing Strategy 00:34:38 The Spirituality of Sport 00:41:19 Evolving Spirituality: A Personal Journey 00:47:23 Embracing Heritage and Identity 00:50:11 The Gift of Life Awareness Keywords: 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