The Changing Faith Podcast with Michael Hidalgo

Episode 085 :: Rhythm, Seasons, Time, Rest

On Episode 085 we explore the connection between rhythm, seasons, time and rest, all of which are woven into the fabric of the universe. We will consider together what happens when we live according to a rhythm, and how that produces an awareness of the sacred, which allows us to live full human lives. Enjoy!

Episode 084 :: Your Brain on P*rn with Ted Shimer

On Episode 084 Ted Shimer, author of The Freedom Fight joins us to talk about our brains on p*rn and the impact that has on intimacy, our spiritual lives and its relationship to shame. Over the years, I have walked with countless people through the pain of p*rn addiction. I have seen families wrecked, relationships devastated and lives fall apart. It is a strange thing that people like Billie Eilish, John Mayer and Russel Brand have spoken out about the danger of it. And in the same way magazines like TIME an GQ have also warned about the damage of p*rn. But lately, there seems to be less open talk about it in many Christian circles. So, let's explore this together. To learn more about Ted's work click here.

Episode 083 :: Molly LaCroix and Internal Family Systems

Molly LaCroix joins the podcast to talk about her new book titled, Restoring Relationships: Transforming Fear into Love Through Connection. Molly walks with us through Internal Family Systems and reflects on the healing that can bring. For those who have experienced pain in relationships - whether betrayal, withholding of forgiveness, abandonment - the lingering question often is, “How do we restore ourselves and these relationships?” And that question is what we will talk about. In this conversation with her, I learned so much and felt invited to continue on the path toward wholeness with a renewed hope. You won’t want to miss this one! Enjoy!

To learn more about Molly and her work visit her website here: https://mollylacroix.com and to purchase a copy of her book click here.

Episode 082 :: The One About Memory

Memory is a funny thing, because we often don't remember well. We often cut and paste and edit in such a way that allows us to keep the parts we don't like hidden away. But what if we learned to look back with greater clarity? What if we learned to tell and retell our story in a way that allowed us to see that memory is a part of me and of you? Perhaps this would allow us to live more integrated lives, that would cause us to be more compassionate, loving and tender toward all people regardless of where they may find themselves on their journey. This episode is the one about memory ... and so much more. Enjoy!

Episode 081 :: Thomas Jay Oord and Pluriform Love

Have you ever read a book and thought to yourself, "Yes! Someone is finally putting into words what I have been sensing but couldn't express!" Well, that is how I felt the first time I read the work of Thomas Jay Oord. He is a theologian, philosopher, author, professor and ... a photographer. He joins the podcast to talk about his newest book titled Pluriform Love. You can learn more about his work on his website: http://thomasjayoord.com - enjoy!

Episode 080 :: Better Than Bitching

On this episode we observe how bitching - everything from complaining, to calling out, cancelling, tearing down, and character assassinations - are often seen as necessary, and, at times, as the right thing to do. But is there a better way to bring about much-needed and long overdue change? Perhaps there are some questions we can consider together to those who learn to do and live better. Also, for more information on the details for The Blueprint and to register with a discount as a podcast listener visit: https://www.michael-hidalgo.com/blueprint-retreat . Enjoy!!

Episode 079 :: What Happened to The Changing Faith Podcast?

On this episode I share why The Changing Faith Podcast went off the air for most of 2021, what I was doing during "radio silence" and what I learned and am learning. In all of that, I am thrilled to be back together with all of you! Additionally, I share about The Blueprint Retreat - the only one I am doing in 2022. You can register and learn more about the retreat here: https://www.michael-hidalgo.com/blueprint

Episode 078 :: Allison Del Fium is Exploring Her Faith

Allison Del Fium joins the Podcast to discuss a word that is thrown around a lot these days: Deconstruction. While deconstruction is needed and tremendously important, there is work on the other side of that too. So what does that process look like? How do we take steps forward? What do we keep and what do we toss? These are some of the questions we explore together. Enjoy!

Episode 077 :: A National Sickness

Atlanta. Boulder. Two more mass shootings that cast us quickly into familiar territory. On this episode we reflect on violence and how it's always been a part of our nation's history. A part of our story that is our national sickness.

Episode 076 :: One Year Later

One year ago everything shut down, we were forced indoors, ordering takeout became commonplace, Tiger King was a thing, we learned about working at home, our kids were thrown into the world of online learning … our world was reshaped overnight. We were thrown into the unknown. We had zero idea of what we were in the middle of. Today, a year later, we know a bit more, we have adjusted to pandemic life, but we still don’t really know what’s around the corner for us. On this episode we explore a few reflections on this season about memory, time, the future and some thoughts on where we are on our journey. Enjoy!

Episode 075 :: Ryan Taylor and Awkward Spirituality

On this episode, first time author, Ryan Taylor joins us to talk about his new book Awkward Spirituality: The Divinity of Ordinary Life. Ryan reflects on his spiritual journey among those many may consider irrelevant, and how he has learned that “wasting time” is a worthwhile endeavor. Ryan is a pastor of Urban Mercy Church and Chaplain of Network Coffee House, a hospitality house for Denver’s chronically unhoused. Ryan and his wife Angela have two boys, Josiah and Micah and live her in Denver, Colorado.

Episode 074 :: Ben Higgins is Alone in Plain Sight

Ben Higgins, joins us on the podcast to talk about his new book titled, Alone in Plain Sight: Searching for Connection When You are Seen but Not Known. We explore the reality of how many of us feel lonely and isolated and what can lead us toward greater connection. Ben is best known from Season 20 of The Bachelor - but more importantly he is deeply passionate about his faith, his hope for humanity, and his love of sports. In 2017 Ben co-founded Generous International, a for-purpose company dedicated to contributing profits to social issues around the world. He is also a part of Humanity & Hope, an organization dedicated to empowering people through self-directed, sustainable change in six key areas: infrastructure, economy, community, health, education, and leadership. Enjoy listening!

Episode 073 :: Bunmi Laditan and Honest Prayer

Bunmi Laditan joins the podcast on this episode to talk about her new book titled Dear God: Honest Prayers to a God Who Listens. Her candor, experience and wit invites all of us to be more raw, honest and authentic in our spiritual journeys. Bunmi is an award winning, Webby nominated writer and a regular contributor to Parenting.com, Mothering.com, iVillage.com, and The Huffington Post - and the author of several books including The Honest Toddler and Confessions of a Domestic Failure. You can find her newest book here and learn more about Bunmi here. Enjoy!

Episode 072 :: Jonathan Merritt and Your Questions

One of the voices I trust and respect to lend wisdom and insight in the midst of these difficult days is the voice of my friend Jonathan Merritt. Many of you sent in questions and topics (in fact, too many for us to cover) and we sat down together to reflect and respond to what you shared with us. To learn more about Jonathan and his work, you can visit his website: jonthanmerritt.com. Enjoy!

Episode 071 :: An Overlooked Christmas Prayer

On the Christmas 2020 Episode we explore an overlooked Christmas Prayer. Historically and traditionally there have been three prayers (or canticles) surrounding the Christmas Story; The Magnificat, The Benedictus and The Nunc Dimittis. But there is another prayer tucked into Luke’s gospel around the Christmas story; one that does not get much attention. But if we pay close attention, it has the power to teach us something foundational. Enjoy!

 

Episode 070 :: Dr. Timothy Royer Wants You to Sleep

On this Episode Dr. Timothy Royer joins us again to talk about the importance of sleep, and its impact on us physically, emotionally and spiritually. He shares about sleep architecture, what happens in our brains and bodies when we sleep, and just how complex sleep really is. Tim is a neuropsychologist based out of Grand Rapids, MI and is the founder of Royer Neuroscience you can learn more about him and his work here.

Episode 069 :: Scott Erickson Wants an Honest Advent

On this episode Scott Erickson (a.k.a Scott the Painter) joins us to talk about his latest book titled Honest Advent. It is a mixture of art and reflections that invite us to greater contemplation of this season. In doing so, it brings us face-to-face with the hope and wonder and the healing this season offers. To learn more about Scott you can visit his website here: https://www.scottericksonart.com. Click here purchase a copy of Honest Advent. Enjoy the episode!

Episode 068 :: There is No Word for Nonviolence, Part 2

In the second of two parts, we explore two more questions about nonviolence. First, why does this subject often elicit strong (and often negative) responses from us? And second: What does it matter anyway? We spend time considering the history of nonviolence, its place in the context of Empire and how it has the power to liberate - both us and others - and bring true and lasting peace. Enjoy!

Episode 067:: There is No Word for Nonviolence, Part 1

Nonviolence is a fascinating idea that has spawned endless conversations and debates. On this episode, part one of two, we add to the conversation by asking two questions about nonviolence. First, What is nonviolence? Second, Does the Christian Tradition have anything to say about it? Enjoy!

Episode 066 :: Jon Huckins Has Conflicted Allegiance

This episode is an Election Day Special. Jon Huckins joins us on the podcast to talk about what it means for us to live as responsible citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven in the midst of the Empire of the United States. He explores how this can lead us to observe the way our society is ordered, our place in it and how this might impact the way we vote. To learn more about his work, visit https://globalimmerse.org 

Episode 065 :: Carly Bergey on Our Authentic Voice

On this episode Carly Bergey joins us to talk about our authentic voice, and how that connects to the stories we inhabit. She explores the connections between our lives and how we speak everyday, and offers insights into how we can live and speak with greater authenticity. Carly works as a a Speech Language Pathologist with expertise in voice care. She has spent ten years treating voice disorders in outpatient medical settings in both Colorado and Pennsylvania, where she now lives. 

Episode 064 :: Bonnie Lewis and an Idiomatic Translation of the Bible

Bonnie Lewis joins the Changing Faith Podcast on this episode. She is a writer, speaker, and theologian. She serves as the Divinity and Creativity Coach with Radical Wellness Collaborative and is the co-host of the Timshel Cast. She lives in Austin, TX with her husband and two kids. We discuss her recent work, called "Timshel," the first-ever idiomatic Bible translation. Timshel, translated from the Hebrew word meaning “we have a choice,” brings out the inner journey of the characters in twenty well-known Biblical stories through rigorous exegetical work, word studies, and historical and cultural research. With the use of modern psychology, and the emphasis on the context in which the text was written, these stories come alive in a whole new way. You can learn more about Timshel and order a copy by visiting timsheltranslation.com and keep up with Bonnie too, click here to follow her on Instagram.

Episode 062 :: Individualism, Punishment and Conversations About Racism

Many have had unnerving conversations with White Christians about racism. There is a disbelief as to how they can deny the ongoing reality of racism in this country, or how they can push back against white privilege or anything that seems to imply they are complicit in a system of evil. Many feel exasperated and are left to ask, "How can they not see this?!" This is what we seek to understand together. As Thich Nhat Hanh says, “Understanding is love’s other name. If you don’t understand, you can’t love.” Perhaps if we can understand more, we can love better. And if we can love better, we all may continue to grow and transform and move toward greater wholeness. Enjoy!

Episode 061 :: Amanda Henderson Brings Holy Chaos

On this episode, Amanda Henderson joins us to talk about her new book titled, Holy Chaos: Creating Connections in Divisive Times. Because sometimes, trying to find connection across real division feels like chaos. Amanda, shares about her own experiences of this hard work - through fear, frustration, being broken open and continuing to love - no matter what. Amanda is the Executive Director of The Interfaith Alliance of Colorado. You can find her new book, Holy Chaos here and learn more about her work with The Interfaith Alliance of Colorado here.

Episode 060 :: Why Does God Matter?

In our current moment of Pandemic and Protests we find ourselves asking, "Why does God Matter?" If we were to ask that question of ourselves, what would we say? On this episode we talk about the idea of the Divine, then a bit about where Jesus fits in to this conversation, and then a response as to why God matters.

Episode 059 :: We Have to Blame Someone!

On this episode, we discuss our the human tendency to NOT look within, while at the same time having a keen eye to see what is wrong out there among others. The more we do this, the more we are able to ignore what needs healing within ourselves. And the more we ignore what's stirring within ourselves, the greater our sense of superiority. And the greater our sense of superiority, the less we believe we need to look at ourselves, which allows us to believe to a greater degree the problem lies not with us. It's a vicious spiral that has the power to lure us into believing our way of thinking is the one, right way. But what if we learn a new way of looking at ourselves, that could lead us to a new way of looking at others? That, among other things, is what we talk about. Enjoy!

Episode 058 :: Colby Martin and The Shift

Many of us find ourselves in new territory with regard to our faith and how we understand God, life, the Bible, the Church and the universe we live in, and that is what we explore on this episode! We talk with our guest about what it’s like to be on a journey toward a renewed expression of our faith, a process Colby Martin calls, The Shift. In it he writes about the journey forward and how it is a mixture of freedom and fear, love and loneliness, empowerment and pain, but on the side of this faith-shift awaits a wider, freer, more peace-filled reality. Colby is the author of UnClobber: Rethinking our Misuse of the Bible on Homosexuality and his latest book The Shift: Surviving and Thriving after Moving from Conservative to Progressive Christianity. You can learn more about Colby by visiting his website at: ColbymartinOnline.com

Episode 057 :: We Are Tired

In this midst of this season one of the common things I routinely hear and see and feel is that we are tired. Regardless of how much sleep we get or how much we exercise (or don’t) this season has been fatiguing for so many of us. On this episode we explore some of the things that may add to our tiredness and some things we can do to lend us and others more energy. Enjoy!

Episode 056 :: Religious Appropriation, Parenting Through Deconstruction, Revelation and The Politics of a Pandemic

This is the fourth installment of responding to your questions – the first of season 3! Thank you for sending in your questions. I always enjoy these episodes because it causes me to think about and address things I normally wouldn’t address … off we go talking about learning from other faiths, a bit about the book of Revelation, how we can parent through deconstruction and why politics are playing an oversized role in this midst of this pandemic. Enjoy!

Episode 055 :: Conversations About the COVID-19 Pandemic

On this episode we explore Conversations About the COVID-19 Pandemic as we sort through this time that will be a reference point for the rest of our lives. And this conversation is reflects on the conversation I have been having with myself, and the conversations I’m having with others in this brand-new world. It changed in what feels like seconds. Not only that, but it seems to be changing every moment. We explore fear, the present moment, gratitude and becoming love in human form. Enjoy!

Episode 054 :: This is Your Brain with Dr. Tim Royer

Episode 054 is the final episode focused on living with intention as we are now into our third month of 2020, and, of course, we talk about the mysterious, complex, fascinating thing we call our brain. Joining us in Dr. Timothy Royer, known by many of us as “Doc”. Tim is a neuropsychologist who has analyzed over 50,000 brains. He shares how we can be those who strengthen our brains so that we can become more whole, healthy and live with greater intention. To learn more about Dr. Royer’s work you can visit his site at RoyerNeuroscience.com.

Episode 053 :: Elyse Snipes is Flipping the Script

Have you ever experienced a voice within that reminds you of the things you “should” have done? Or the things you wish you had done? Or perhaps moments you look back on and wish you had responded differently? Where you experience regret and wish you could have just one more chance? This way of thinking is tied to our lives and the story they tell, but it doesn’t have to be this way. On this episode we talk about how we can flip the script in our lives. Therapist, speaker, retreat leader, and host of the Trailercast Podcast, Elyse Snipes joins us to talk about how we can learn the stories we’ve long told ourselves and how we can learn to tell a new one. To learn more about Elyse and her work, visit https://www.elysesnipes.com . You can also find her on Instagram at @elysesnipes_collective

Episode 052 :: Stuff That Helps with Kent Dobson

This is the third installment of entering 2020 with intention. Kent Dobson joins us on this episode to talk about "Stuff That Helps." These are things Kent has learned and is learning along the way and he comes to share his insights, wisdom and observations with us. To learn more about Kent's work, podcast and teaching, visit his website KentDobson.com.

Episode 051 :: Trying Softer with Aundi Kolber

Author and therapist Aundi Kolber joins us on this episode to talk about her new book Try Softer; part memoir, part instructive and incredibly insightful. Aundi shares how she, for so long, tried harder until she found that no longer worked. After stepping back, finding healing and greater wholeness, she approached life in a whole new way - no longer trying harder, but softer. Learn more about Aundi, her work and her new book by visiting her site AundiKolber.com

Episode 050 :: Failed Resolutions

The 50th episode of The Changing Faith Podcast! In light of the New Year, and the new decade, we explore why our resolutions often fail each year. And begin the first of a several episode journey focused on intention. How do we live with more intent? How do we live in such a way in which everything we do moves our story forward? We talk about screenwriting, stand-up comedy, figure skating and films as a way of lending understanding of how we can live each day with more intent.

Episode 049 :: Annie Mesaros Sees a Darkness

On Episode 049 we explore darkness, as we are close to the winter solstice; the shortest day of the year for those living in the Northern Hemisphere. It’s a time when there is more darkness than light, and a time when many struggle because of the lack of light. But what if there is something for us, not only in the light, but also in the darkness? What can we glean from these short, cold, days of winter? Annie Mesaros, host of The God Help Us Podcast, joins us to share her insight, understanding and experience about darkness - in our world, in ourselves and those dark nights of the soul.

Episode 048 :: I, I Believe in Love

One of the most common questions I receive in my line of work is: What do you believe about ______________ (fill in the blank). When asked this question I never give an answer. However, on this episode I do respond to what I believe about … everything. On this episode I reflect on a conversation I had with a close friend some months ago when he asked, “What do you really deeply believe? Like, what are you willing to die for? Maybe I should say what are you willing to live for, and hang onto as though your life depended on it? Forget everything else; what actually matters? Like if it is not true, it would change the very complexion of the universe? My response? “Easy. Love.” And that was the beginning of our conversation and just the start of this episode.

Episode 047 :: Legalism Within Progressive Christianity

On this episode we explore religious legalism, something many are familiar with. However, the legalism we talk about is not from the Religious Right but from the Religious Left; the legalism found within some parts of Progressive Christianity. While many want to explore what is next in their faith, when exposed to some Progressive Christians they experience discomfort and unease. This is because the same legalism and self-righteousness of poor religion that led them to leave their church is still hanging around in some progressive circles. So what can we do to transcend this and continue our important conversations in a healthier ways? That is what we talk about and explore. Enjoy!

Episode 046 :: Plant with Purpose

On this episode Scott Sabin, Executive Director of Plant With Purpose and Corbyn Small who leads the fundraising and outreach arm of Plant with Purpose, join us to talk about the work being done around the world to alleviate extreme poverty. Together they share about how smart practices, cultivation of the environment, empowerment and economic practices are bringing healing to communities around the world. To learn more about this incredible work go to: PlantWithPurpose.Org

Episode 045 :: Adam Philipps Brings Love, Light, Joy and Justice

Pastor and author Adam Phillips join us for Episode 045. He is the founding pastor of Christ Church: Portland. He has long been an advocate on global poverty and economic justice and a few months back he released his new book Love, Light, Joy and Justice - exploring the crucial subject of "How to Be a Christian Now." Together we talk about what steps we can take as we better understand what it means to follow Jesus in our times.

 

 

Episode 044 :: I'm Still Here, Part Three

Episode 044 is part three of a three-part series titled, “I’m Still Here” in which we discuss how the Christian Tradition invites us to go beyond itself. This is because religion is something formed and fashioned by finite human beings, and, in its healthy forms, leads us into communion with the infinite Divine Mystery. This is what we witness from the opening words of the Scripture, and an understanding that flows through the narrative. As we wake up to this more and more, we will join with all those who have found themselves saying: Surely, God was in this place, and I, I did not know.”

Episode 043 :: I'm Still Here, Part Two

On Part two of the three-part series titled “I’m Still Here” we consider the historical Jesus and his interaction with religion and with the religious of his day. It seems that Jesus was not hostile toward religion, rather wanted to keep religion in its proper place: a vehicle, not the vision. We observe why Jesus seemed to move the boundaries, amend beliefs and abolish some parts of his religious tradition … and in doing so remained faithful to it. It’s possible, if we imitate Jesus’ relationship with his Tradition, we may build a healthier Christianity and, we will find that we will become healthier in the process.

Episode 042 :: I'm Still Here, Part One

Season Three begins with a three-part series titled “I’m Still Here.” On part one, Michael reflects on why he is still comfortable with the label Christian. The question arose over the summer as people talked about those who no longer call themselves “Christian” or stated they were “losing their faith.” Rather than speculate on what led others to that place, Michael considered what it is that has kept him “here” … calling himself a Christian. Together we explore how we often narrowly define Christianity, and how we can open ourselves to the bigger, broader, Tradition. In the end, we just might find that doing this is not about walking away from our faith, but walking more fully into it.

Episode 041 :: The Faith Shift of Marla Taviano

On this, the final episode of Season 2, author and speaker Marla Taviano joins us to tell her story and share about her faith shift. Marla is one who continues to take steps in a continued journey, and in doing so challenges and invites others to do the same. Her story from Ohio to Cambodia promises to inspire all who listen. Learn more about Marla, her writing and her work here.

Episode 040 :: The PreachersNSneakers Interview

On this episode, the creator of @PreachersNSneakers, the popular Instagram account, joins us. Each of his posts features preachers wearing sneakers, but it’s not that simple. The preachers featured in each post are well known, and the sneakers they wear in the photos are hard to get; often costing well over $500. Together, we talk about what materialism is and is not, celebrity culture that can dehumanize people, how to observe rather than judge and more. And of course, we talk a bit about sneakers and what shoes we both wore during the interview.

Episode 039 :: George Mekhail on Church Clarity

George Mekhail, Executive Director of Church Clarity joins the Changing Faith Podcast to talk about how institutions often operate in ambiguity, rather than clarity. And churches are no exception. Many churches fail to disclose their actively enforced policies … Can a woman preach? Will you officiate a same-sex wedding? Will you hire a queer pastor? Answers to these questions often remain elusive. Ambiguity enables those with power to operate without accountability, often causing real harm. Many invest years into a church community, only to later discover the truth about the church’s policies, and end up feeling betrayed, deceived and “bait-and-switched.” Join us to learn why Clarity is reasonable. You can learn more about Church Clarity here: https://www.churchclarity.org Follow George on Twitter here:@gmekhail

Episode 038 :: I Was Hurt by the Church

On this episode we talk about those who have been “Hurt by the Church” - those who have been wounded by organized religion or disillusioned by the word and actions of pastors and faith leaders. Unfortunately far too many of us know this painful experience firsthand. How do we move through it? What can it teach us? How do we forgive? How do we move toward health and not bitterness? Michael shares out of his own experience of being betrayed and wounded by those in the church, his decision to leave the church and eventually to return. The hope of this episode is we might take another step toward hope and healing for those who have been hurt by the Church.

Episode 037 :: Trees, Plants, Flowers, Jesus and The Bible with Matthew Sleeth

Dr. Matthew Sleeth joins the Podcast to talk about how we have missed the forest and the trees. Matthew is the author of several books including: The Gospel According to the Earth and Serve God, Save the Planet and his latest book titled Reforesting Faith. Together we learn why trees are spoken about in the Bible more than any other living thing except humans, understand the connection between trees and poverty, how trees are central to the life of Jesus and hear about why he's been called a "tree hugger." Enjoy!

Episode 036 :: Questions and Responses but Not Answers

On this episode we spend time responding to your questions, which can prove interesting. Because there is always the chance that it can feel as though you ask a question, and I answer it, then we move on to the next question and the next answer and so on. My hope in this is not providing answers that end conversation but responses that move the conversation forward, not end it. In doing so, we may come to ask more helpful questions that lead us further and deeper. Enjoy!

Episode 035 Greg and Lynn McDonald and Embracing the Journey

Episode 035 is here! On this episode Greg and Lynn McDonald join us. Together they are co-founders of Embracing the Journey, an organization dedicated to helping LGBTQ families reconcile with one another. In March 2019, they released a book entitled, Embracing the Journey– an inspiring guide for parents of LGBTQ children. Join with us as we will talk about their journey as a family, what led them to write this book and what their work is all about.