Liminal Living

Dec 11 2024 102 ep. 60 mins 33

Liminal Living Podcast artwork

Welcome to the Liminal Living Podcast, where we dive deep into the realm of liminal spaces—those transitional phases where uncertainty is our companion. I'm your host and curator of conversations, Dr. Tom Rundel, and it's my pleasure to serve as your guide through these uncharted territories. With a doctoral background in spirituality and leadership from Portland Seminary, my research has centered on the spirituality found in the narratives of liminality in the Bible, but I have expanded my research to include other faith traditions and cognitive science. Since our launch in 2023, we've been dedicated to exploring the nuances of dark nights and deconstructions, but our journey expanded to include insights from a diverse array of modern-day thinkers and artists. Through a blend of stories, practices, and perspectives, we provide valuable guidance for fellow travelers navigating their own liminal spaces. So, join us as we embark on this journey and embrace the uncertainty in order to uncover the hidden wisdom that lies within the liminal spaces of life.

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Blair Coyle: Escaping Evangelical Indoctrination

Dec 11 2024 63 mins

In this conversation, Tom Rundel and Blair Coyle explore the profound journey of faith, personal growth, and the quest for authenticity. They discuss the beauty of experiencing the Northern Lights, the complexities of growing up in evangelical communities, and the challenges of questioning deeply held beliefs. Blair shares his experiences with YWAM, the impact of spiritual abuse, a

Leslie Nease: Free From Toxic Theology

Dec 04 2024 75 mins

In this engaging conversation, Tom Rundel and Leslie Nease explore Leslie's transformative journey from a fear-based faith to a more authentic and connected spirituality. They discuss her upbringing, family dynamics, and the impact of her experiences on her faith. Leslie shares her insights on deconstruction, the importance of community, and the shift from focusing on the destinati

S3 E50: Scot McKnight: Doing Better Political Discipleship

Nov 27 2024 50 mins

In this conversation, Tom Rundel and Scot McKnight explore the intersection of politics and Christianity, particularly in the context of recent elections. They discuss the emotional responses of Christians to political outcomes, the alignment of evangelicalism with certain political figures, and the implications for young people leaving the church. The conversation emphasizes the n

S3 E 49: Mattie Jo Cowsert: Unraveling Evangelical Identity

Nov 20 2024 59 mins

In this episode of the Liminal Living Podcast, Mattie Jo Cowsert shares her journey from Branson, Missouri to New York City, exploring the complexities of her upbringing in an evangelical community. She discusses the dichotomy of her faith, the pressures of conformity, and her eventual questioning of beliefs. The conversation delves into the historical context of women in Christian

S3 E45: Cassidy Hall: Queering Contemplation

Nov 13 2024 71 mins

In this engaging conversation, Cassidy Hall shares her experiences hiking the Camino, reflecting on spirituality, faith, and the journey of self-discovery. She discusses the importance of grounding oneself in local communities, the influence of Thomas Merton on her spiritual journey, and the concept of queering contemplation. The dialogue also touches on political engagement, the p

S3 E48: Rob Bell on the Meaning of Everything

Nov 04 2024 71 mins

In this engaging conversation, Rob Bell and Tom Rundel explore themes of identity, grief, and the creative process. They discuss a recent cross-country road trip that Bell took with his son, reflecting on the emotional transitions that accompany significant life changes. The conversation delves into the nature of self-definition, the importance of names, and the balance between sel

S3 E45: Bradley Jersak: Nonviolent Atonement

Oct 30 2024 69 mins

In this episode of the Liminal Living podcast, host Tom Rundel engages with Bradley Jersak, exploring his journey through various faith communities, the impact of trauma, and the complexities of understanding suffering and evil in a theological context. Jersak shares insights on nonviolent atonement, the significance of the cross, and the importance of addressing modern spiritual a

S3 E41: Danny Cox: Making Inclusive Faith Spaces

Oct 23 2024 73 mins

Danny Cox, a former pastor, shares his journey of faith and the challenges he faced within the evangelical church. He discusses the importance of transparency and clarity in church communities, particularly when it comes to issues like LGBTQ inclusion. Danny also explores the concept of covenantal relationships and the need for open and honest conversations within the church. He ul

S3 E44: Tommy Preson Phillips: Leaving the Church and Looking for Christ

Oct 16 2024 75 mins

In this episode, musician, pastor, and author Tommy Preson Phillips shares his journey from growing up in a Southern Baptist household to becoming the pastor of Watermark Church, a community focused on reconciliation and reimagining faith. Tommy discusses the challenges of deconstruction, navigating church leadership, and the beauty of embracing curiosity and doubt in faith. He exp

Unfundamentalist Bible Studies: Reinterpreting James Ch 5

Oct 11 2024 30 mins

In this episode of the Liminal Living Podcast, Tom Rundel concludes his series on the Book of James, focusing on the themes of suffering, spiritual bypassing, and the importance of community support. He discusses how the early Christians understood suffering not as a glorified experience but as a reality of life that should be engaged with through honest spiritual practices. The co