James Finley is a contemplative practitioner, clinical psychologist and faculty member of The Living School for Action and Contemplation. Drawing from his experience as a former monk and spiritual directee of Thomas Merton, James helps seekers who desire to live a contemplative, whole life. In this episode, he and Eric discuss many of his works and concepts ... Show More
Sep 15
Why Feeling Insecure Doesn’t Mean You’re Back at the Beginning | Dr. Marisa G. Franco
In this episode, Dr. Marisa G. Franco explores why feeling insecure doesn’t mean you’re back at the beginning, and how real self-worth may come from learning to make room for every part of yourself. She and Eric discuss why old insecurities can return even after years of growth, ... Show More
56m 55s
Sep 11
Midlife Reinvention: How to Create Your Own Script for What Comes Next | Allison Aubrey
In this episode, Allison Aubrey explores midlife reinvention and how to create your own script for what comes next. She shares why midlife can be less about winding down and more about rediscovering parts of ourselves that may have been set aside during years of work, parenting, ... Show More
1h 1m
Sep 8
You Become What You Practice: How to Train Your Mind for the Life You Want | Jim Kwik
In this episode, Jim Kwik explores how the thoughts, habits, and choices we repeat each day shape who we become. He explains why we’re always training our brains—whether we’re practicing focus or distraction, resilience or avoidance—and how small, intentional actions can strength ... Show More
53m 16s
Dec 2023
441. At-One-Ment with Thomas McConkie
<p>Philosopher, thought leader, teacher, and author Thomas McConkie is one of my favorite people to learn from. He's led an interesting life, becoming an expert in all things meditation and mindfulness. </p> <p> </p> <p>Tune in this week for a conversation with Thomas about onene ... Show More
33m 46s
Feb 2020
Bonus: Richard Rohr & James Finley on Turning to the Mystics
In this bonus episode, Living School Faculty James (Jim) Finley and Kirsten Oates join Richard Rohr and Paul Swanson (Brie sadly wasn't there!) in conversation about the contemplative journey, what it was like to be guided by Thomas Merton, Jim's trauma work, and their new podcas ... Show More
1h 9m
Mar 2021
Dialogue 1: The Ascent of Mount Carmel
This is the first session that focuses on the mystic, St. John of the Cross. In the tenor of the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, James Finley begins with a passage from St. John's The Ascent of Mount Carmel, and reflects on the qualitative essence of the spirit of this text. R ... Show More
41m 11s
May 2025
Introduction to Mindfulness: Mindfulness of Thoughts – Part 4
<p>This talk examines how the trance of thinking imprisons us, veiling our full aliveness, love, and spiritual essence. Through contemplative reflections and short guided practices, we'll explore pathways to awaken from this trance and open to the light, awareness, and wholeness ... Show More
53m 54s
Apr 2021
Mingyur Rinpoche - Awareness, Compassion, and Wisdom
In this episode, Wendy speaks with Tibetan Buddhist teacher Mingyur Rinpoche about how contemplative practice can lead us to awareness, compassion, and wisdom. Their conversation covers many topics, including: his involvement in early contemplative research; translating concepts ... Show More
41m 29s
Jul 2024
#94: Exploring Consciousness & Deep Awareness - Doug Kraft
How does the mind shape our reality? What happens when the conceptual mind turns off? The answers might be found in the depths of meditation. Doug Kraft has delved into the complexities of the mind from various perspectives: as a psychotherapist, writer, minister, meditation teac ... Show More
59m 43s
Sep 2025
A Trappist monk on how to stop judging others
Host James Martin, S.J., welcomes Fr. Isaac Slater, OCSO, a Trappist monk, poet, and author of “Do Not Judge Anyone: Desert Wisdom for a Polarized World” to “The Spiritual Life” podcast. This contemplative conversation includes: The positive effects silence can have on our prayer ... Show More
56m 53s
Jun 2023
Simplifying Consciousness
What does it mean to awaken our spiritual consciousness, and how can we navigate this complex, personal journey? In this week’s thought-provoking episode, Gareth and Kim explore the realm of spiritual consciousness, sharing insights from their own spiritual journeys.They uncover ... Show More
37m 18s