Learning How to See with Brian McLaren
Center for Action and Contemplation
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How do we transform and transcend our biases? From judgments made unconsciously to complacency in systemic evil, we must learn how to see if we are to learn how to transform. Center for Action and Contemplation faculty member Brian McLaren hosts the podcast series Learning How to See. Listen and discover how seeing is social, political, and contemplative.
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
Nov 24, 2023
The Seventh Story
What if we could reimagine the future of storytelling?
In the last episode of Season 5 of Learning How to See, join in the conversation about how to create a new kind of space in which we can all participate in shifting our world towards greater Love and justice.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
To learn more about Gareth Higgins, click here.
To learn more about Brian McLaren, click here.
To explore the seven stories in more depth, visit the website here. You'll find details about the children's book, essays for adults, and more.
Connect with us:
Have a question you'd like Brian or Gareth to answer about the seven stories? Email us: podcasts@cac.org or leave us voicemail. Questions for this season will only be accepted until November 22nd, 2023.
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at https://cac.org/support-cac/podcasts/ Thank you!
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Nov 17, 2023
Accumulation Stories
How do you embrace the wisdom of letting go?
In this episode, Brian and Gareth explore the power of sharing to explore the Accumulation Story, a justification of our human need to hold onto things, people, and circumstances.
Gareth explains: “This is a story about money and fear. It's a story about being possessed by things rather than enjoying and sharing them. And it's a story nested within a bigger story about how sometimes when we think we have more, we actually have less.”
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
To learn more about Gareth Higgins, click here.
To learn more about Brian McLaren, click here.
To explore the seven stories in more depth, visit the website here. You'll find details about the children's book, essays for adults, and more.
Connect with us:
Have a question you'd like Brian or Gareth to answer about the seven stories? Email us: podcasts@cac.org or leave us voicemail. Questions for this season will only be accepted until November 22nd, 2023.
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at https://cac.org/support-cac/podcasts/ Thank you!
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Nov 10, 2023
Victimization Stories
How do you tell the story of a time you have been wronged or betrayed?
Many of us experience victimization. But when does "victim" become an outdated part of our identity? Brian McLaren offers us: “If victims allow themselves to take an offramp from their victimizing stories, they embrace another way to define their lives.”
We're continuing forward with powerful explorations of storytelling as resilience and transformation.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
To learn more about Gareth Higgins, click here.
To learn more about Brian McLaren, click here.
To explore the seven stories in more depth, visit the website here. You'll find details about the children's book, essays for adults, and more.
Connect with us:
Have a question you'd like Brian or Gareth to answer about the seven stories? Email us: podcasts@cac.org or leave us voicemail. Questions for this season will only be accepted until November 22nd, 2023.
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at https://cac.org/support-cac/podcasts/ Thank you!
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Nov 3, 2023
Isolation Stories
“To be fully in the world is to believe that we can love other people and places more than we fear them.” –Gareth Higgins
Have you convinced yourself that you are better off alone? Today we're exploring the dynamics of the Isolation Story — the belief that we can avoid pain by avoiding others. As Gareth Higgins explains, “While it may not be physically violent, the Isolation Story is more than harmful, because it does two things. First, it moves us toward less connection with others, and therefore less community and support when we need it. And second, it turns life grey, where we miss out on the gifts of the rainbow.”
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
To learn more about Gareth Higgins, click here.
To learn more about Brian McLaren, click here.
To explore the seven stories in more depth, visit the website here. You'll find details about the children's book, essays for adults, and more.
Connect with us:
Have a question you'd like Brian or Gareth to answer about the seven stories? Email us: podcasts@cac.org or leave us voicemail. Questions for this season will only be accepted until November 22nd, 2023.
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at https://cac.org/support-cac/podcasts/ Thank you!
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Oct 27, 2023
Purification Stories
“Almost everybody who does evil has convinced themselves that they are doing good.” —Brian McLaren
Have you ever convinced yourself that an unloving act was justified? In this episode, we're asking ourselves the tough questions and peeling back the layers of the Purification Story — a narrative with complex dynamics that can lead us to harmful interactions with others and ourselves.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
To learn more about Gareth Higgins, click here.
To learn more about Brian McLaren, click here.
To explore the seven stories in more depth, visit the website here. You'll find details about the children's book, essays for adults, and more.
Connect with us:
Have a question you'd like Brian or Gareth to answer about the seven stories? Email us: podcasts@cac.org or leave us voicemail. Questions for this season will only be accepted until November 22nd, 2023.
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at https://cac.org/support-cac/podcasts/ Thank you!
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Oct 20, 2023
Revolution Stories
“If you want a better world, tell a better story — especially one that centers justice without vengeance.” –Gareth Higgins
How do we tell stories that offer us the best chance of creating a more peaceful and loving reality? In this episode of Learning How to See, we're exploring stories of revolution. Although these tales often contain values of heroism and liberty, they are more likely to feed into the cycle of violence rather than end it.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
To learn more about Gareth Higgins, click here.
To learn more about Brian McLaren, click here.
To explore the seven stories in more depth, visit the website here. You'll find details about the children's book, essays for adults, and more.
Connect with us:
Have a question you'd like Brian or Gareth to answer about the seven stories? Email us: podcasts@cac.org or leave us voicemail. Questions for this season will only be accepted until November 22nd, 2023.
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at https://cac.org/support-cac/podcasts/ Thank you!
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Oct 13, 2023
Domination Stories
“Stories shape our reality, whether they are true or not.” —Gareth Higgins
What if you told the story of your life differently? Explore the powerful influence of stories in shaping our experiences in the newest season of Learning How to See with Brian McLaren and Gareth Higgins.
In this episode, we explore the Domination Story, a way of understanding our world that distorts our relationships with others and the Earth. Learn how to identify and shift this kind of story so that you can experience a truer and more loving reality.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
To learn more about Gareth Higgins, click here.
To learn more about Brian McLaren, click here.
To explore the seven stories in more depth, visit the website here. You'll find details about the children's book, essays for adults, and more.
Connect with us:
Have a question you'd like Brian or Gareth to answer about the seven stories? Email us: podcasts@cac.org or leave us voicemail. Questions for this season will only be accepted until November 22nd, 2023.
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at https://cac.org/support-cac/podcasts/ Thank you!
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Oct 6, 2023
An Introduction to Seven Stories
“Becoming conscious of the stories we’re telling can be lifesaving to individuals and entire cultures.”—Gareth Higgins
How do you recount life’s biggest triumphs and failures? What about your deepest loves and biggest betrayals? In this season, we'll be exploring the power of storytelling to help create a more just and loving world.
This season, Brian McLaren dives into conversation with the co-host for this season, Gareth Higgins. Gareth is a writer and speaker who works in peace building and violence reduction in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Together, Brian and Gareth invite you to explore the story patterns that can lead us towards — and away from — a more equitable and loving future.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
To learn more about Gareth Higgins, click here.
To learn more about Brian McLaren, click here.
To explore the seven stories in more depth, visit the website here. You'll find details about the children's book, essays for adults, and more.
Connect with us:
Have a question you'd like Brian or Gareth to answer about the seven stories? Email us: podcasts@cac.org or leave us voicemail. Questions for this season will only be accepted until November 22nd, 2023.
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at https://cac.org/support-cac/podcasts/ Thank you!
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Jul 27, 2023
Listener Questions: Navigating Faith Shifts in Marriage and Relationships
Have your spiritual views impacted your romantic relationships?
In the next episode of our listener questions series, Brian and the team examine how our faith often impacts our relationships. Together, they respond to listener questions from a variety of backgrounds and experiences to help the listeners understand how to navigate the challenges these situations can bring.
Today’s conversation sensitively explores these complex dynamics in intimate relationships.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
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Jul 26, 2023
Listener Questions: Jesus and Theology
In this third episode of listener questions, Brian and the team respond to questions that came in centered around Jesus and theology. A listener writes, “I've been questioning the virgin birth and resurrection. As of now, I believe that Jesus was an amazing prophet who was so in touch with God’s spirit that he could do miracles, and his teachings were life changing. Would you let me know how you feel about my thoughts?”
Brian and the team responds by discussing the differences between “fact” and “truth.” Together, they explore the power of Mary saying “yes” to God’s calling, even though it meant painfully going against cultural norms. The team also dives into various atonement theories in theology. Listen now!
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
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Jul 25, 2023
Listener Questions: Community
What does community look like when our faith shifts?
“If I support my grandson who is gay, what do I do with my Catholic faith?”
Brian, and the team from the Center for Action and Contemplation reflect on questions that came in around community.
Resources:
A transcript for this episode can be found here.
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Jul 24, 2023
Listener Questions: Actions and Beliefs, and God's Intervention
The topic of questions related to this listener questions episode is on actions and beliefs, and if God intervenes.
Listeners wrote in with questions such as: “Does God intervene? Does Jesus heal? What am I doing when I pray for people? What precisely is the gospel? If I only had more faith, prayed the right prayer, and believed the Bible literally, maybe these awful things like the death of my young sister-in-law may not have happened.”
Brian, and the team from the Center for Action and Contemplation reflect on these questions.
Resources:
A transcript for this episode can be found here.
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Mar 24, 2023
Stay Human
Who reminds you of who you really are—even during dark times? Jacqui and Barbara are back, together, to explore ways to stay human amid fear and uncertainty.
In this last episode exploring the chapters of 'How', these conversation partners explore the importance of humanity at the core of an authentic faith journey. Whether or not you continue to call yourself Christian—or a member of any other faith—how do we retain the courage to see the world as it truly is?
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
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Mar 17, 2023
Stay Loyal to Reality (feat. Barbara Brown Taylor)
What is your response when your faith tradition demands that you deny reality?
Barbara Brown Taylor is back to discuss the importance of embracing “what is” more than adhering to our beliefs. This episode is based on 27th chapter of Do I Stay Christian?, Stay Loyal to Reality.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
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Mar 10, 2023
Renounce and Announce (feat. Jacqui Lewis)
How do you stand for what you believe without making others wrong?
In this episode, Rev. Jacqui Lewis joins Brian again to discuss how we can declare our beliefs with love—and why it is essential for the healing of our communities and our planet.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Throughout this season, as questions or thoughts arise, we'd love to hear from you. You can contact us by leaving a voicemail or emailing us at podcasts@cac.org
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Mar 3, 2023
Re-Consecrate Everything (feat. Barbara Brown Taylor)
How do you create harmony in your life?
Can Christianity inspire us to focus on what kind of human we want to be—instead of trying to prove we’re right?
In this episode, Barbara Brown Taylor returns to the show for a continuing conversation about the necessary and profound work of reconsecrating our lives—spiritually and ecologically. As Brian explains, “You can leave Christianity, but Christianity won’t leave you. Christianity must be recycled, redeemed, and reconsecrated to be transformed.”
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Throughout this season, as questions or thoughts arise, we'd love to hear from you. You can contact us by leaving a voicemail or emailing us at podcasts@cac.org
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Feb 24, 2023
Find the Flow (feat. Jacqui Lewis)
What gets you into the flow?
Rev. Jacqui Lewis joins Brian again in conversation to envision a new way of living Christianity in this episode talking about the 24th chapter, Find the Flow.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Throughout this season, as questions or thoughts arise, we'd love to hear from you. You can contact us by leaving a voicemail or emailing us at podcasts@cac.org
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Feb 17, 2023
Re-Wild (feat. Todd Wynward)
Where do we go to replenish our hearts?
On this season of Learning How to See, we're exploring ways to reframe our Christian identity so that it reflects our lived reality.
In this episode author, wilderness educator, and Mennonite organizer, Todd Wynward, offers his perspective that spending time in the wilderness—physically and spiritually— can fill our hearts and minds with new meaning.
Resources:
The transcript to the episode can be found here.
Throughout this season, as questions or thoughts arise, we'd love to hear from you. You can contact us by leaving a voicemail or emailing us at podcasts@cac.org
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Feb 10, 2023
Start with the Heart (feat. Jacqui Lewis)
How do we remind ourselves that Love is the center of our lives?
As we continue this season, Brian and the guests offer guideposts for negotiating a new relationship to Christianity when we are ready to leave limiting beliefs behind. On this episode, Rev. Jacqui Lewis explains that living from a space of love is an active calling: “Love that comes from the heart demands justice. It insists on wellbeing. It insists on caring for the vulnerable. And that’s fierce.”
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Throughout this season, as questions or thoughts arise, we'd love to hear from you. You can contact us by leaving a voicemail or emailing us at podcasts@cac.org
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Feb 3, 2023
Include and Transcend (feat. Barbara Brown Taylor)
How have you experienced the grief of growth?
In this episode, Barbara Brown Taylor joins Brian for a stimulating conversation about the importance of emotional honesty on each step of our spiritual journey. As we outgrow religious ideas and practices, it’s tempting to bend the truth to make us comfortable—but that reaction slows the process of transformation.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Throughout this season, as questions or thoughts arise, we'd love to hear from you. You can contact us by leaving a voicemail or emailing us at podcasts@cac.org
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Jan 30, 2023
An Introduction to Season 4
As we kick off a new season grappling with the 'how' answer of Do I Stay Christian?, Brian wanted to revisit the previous seasons that built up and connect to this very question. Joining Brian in conversation are Center for Action and Contemplation staff members Mike Petrow, Gigi Ross, and Dawson Allen. At the end of this season, we'll come back together to reflect and respond to what the listener's submitted during the season.
Throughout this season, as questions or thoughts arise, we'd love to hear from you. You can contact us by leaving a voicemail or emailing us at podcasts@cac.org
A transcript for this episode can be found here.
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Jan 25, 2023
Season 4: Learning How to See: Christianity (How)
On this Season 4 of Learning How to See, we continue to grapple with the question "do I stay Christian?" In Season 3, we looked at the "yes" and the "no" answer to that question. This season, we're asking: if you do decide to stay Christian without accepting the harmful elements of the Christian faith -- how are you going to do it? Join Rev. Barbara Brown Taylor, Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis, and others to explore ways we all can live good and full, meaningful, and just lives--whether we continue to identify as Christian or not.
We'd love to hear from you throughout this season. We'll be doing an episode responding to what arises for you. Contact us by leaving a voicemail or emailing us at podcasts@cac.org
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Jul 1, 2022
Christianity as a Road We Make By Walking
Could technology be key to deepening our faith experience? From the printing press to podcasts, the newest technology has been inviting people into faith conversations for centuries.
On this episode, Brian is joined by theologian and podcaster Tripp Fuller as we embrace walking towards a fresh and vibrant theology that is accessible to everyone. Tripp is a self-described “theology nerd,” and brings his deep knowledge of Biblical history and a commitment to creating space for everyone to cultivate a more authentic relationship with their faith.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here
Brian's new book, Do I Stay Christian? can be found here
Tripp's podcast, Homebrewed Christianity is available wherever you like to download podcasts.
Brian and Tripp will be leading an online class on the book starting in September. Details here: https://homebrewedchristianity.lpages.co/doistaychristian/
Everyone who purchases a copy of Brian's new book Do I Stay Christian?…
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Jun 24, 2022
Christianity as a Set of Insistent Questions
What if questions are God’s way of communicating? Could we learn to embrace asking questions as a spiritual practice?
For this episode, Brian McLaren invites two great wisdom teachers of our time, Dr. James Finley and Dr. Barbara Holmes into a conversation about the simple steps we can take to celebrate the sacredness of each moment. This conversation journeys into the heart of embracing mystery and all that is unsolved in your heart.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here
Brian's new book, Do I Stay Christian? can be found here
Dr. Barbara Holme's podcast, The Cosmic We can be found on: CAC | Apple or wherever you like to download podcasts.
Dr. James Finley's podcast, Turning to the Mystics can be found on: CAC | Apple or wherever you like to download podcasts.
Everyone who purchases a copy of Brian's new book Do I Stay Christian? from our online bookstore will be invited to participate in an exclusive Community Read-Along on Facebook! There will be di…
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Jun 17, 2022
Christianity and the Cult of Innocence
What is the Christian Cult of Innocence and how does it limit our view of ourselves, God, and Christian wisdom? In this episode, Brian McLaren continues his journey of discovering wisdom and perspectives that can break Christianity open. In this conversation, Fr. Richard Rohr and Paul Swanson explore how embracing our flawed human nature can free us from limiting judgements that keep us and everyone else limited, small, and feeling unworthy of Divine Love. Learn to liberate yourself and everyone else you know to be unapologetically human!
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here
Brian's new book, Do I Stay Christian? can be found here
Everyone who purchases a copy of Brian's new book Do I Stay Christian? from our online bookstore will be invited to participate in an exclusive Community Read-Along on Facebook! There will be discussion questions, prompts, and shared practices as we move through the book each week.
The Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC)…
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Jun 10, 2022
Christianity as Neighbor (Part 2)
Renowned civil rights leader and best-selling author Valarie Kaur joins Brian for this episode of Learning How to See. In this conversation, they help us see how learning about another faith tradition can help us see our own tradition in a different way.
Valarie Kaur is a renowned civil rights leader and celebrated prophetic voice "at the forefront of progressive change" (Center for American Progress). Valarie burst into American consciousness in the wake of the 2016 election when her Watch Night Service address went viral with 40 million views worldwide. Her question "Is this the darkness of the tomb – or the darkness of the womb?" reframed the political moment and became a mantra for people fighting for change. Valarie now leads the Revolutionary Love Project to reclaim love as a force for justice in America.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here
Brian's new book, Do I Stay Christian? can be found here
Valarie Kaur's work with Revolutionary Love can be f…
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Jun 3, 2022
Christianity as Neighbor (Part 1)
Antisemitism, theology, empire—this week’s episode invites us to examine our histories and faith traditions with an honest lens. Explore a different perspective of Christianity with Rabbi Jill Jacobs, who discuss what is means to have Christianity as a neighbor.
Rabbi Jill Jacobs (she/her) is the CEO of T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights, an organization that trains and mobilizes more than 2,300 rabbis and cantors and their communities to bring a moral voice to protecting and advancing human rights in North America, Israel, and the occupied Palestinian territories. She is the author of Where Justice Dwells: A Hands-On Guide to Doing Social Justice in Your Jewish Community and There Shall Be No Needy: Pursuing Social Justice through Jewish Law and Tradition, both published by Jewish Lights.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here
Brian's new book, Do I Stay Christian? can be found here
Rabbi Jill Jacob's work with T'ruah can be found here.
Everyo…
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May 27, 2022
Christianity, Race, and Politics
On the second episode of this season, Brian is joined by Lisa Sharon Harper and Gigi Ross exploring the many ways colonialism has injected racism into Christianity, politics, and the culture we live in. Utilizing theology, research, and drawing heavily from Lisa's work in her latest book Fortune, this episode offers a gripping examination of slavery’s lingering impact on the shadow of Christianity. Please be advised this episode discusses topics around sexual violence that may elicit difficult emotions and memories for some.
Note: This episode was recorded on March 10th, 2022, before the Supreme Court draft opinion potentially overturning Roe vs. Wade was leaked. Some elements of the conversation will reflect this.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here
Brian's new book, Do I Stay Christian? can be found here
Lisa's book, Fortune: How Race Broke My Family and The World and How to Repair It All can be found here.
Everyone who purchases a copy of Brian's…
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May 20, 2022
Christianity is Many Things
What does “Christianity” mean to you? Do you see it as a force for good in the world? How much harm has it caused? Do you want to stay Christian? And if so, what kind—and how?
In this first episode from season three of Learning How to See, host Brian McLaren goes straight to the heart of these questions and more. Joined by scholar and historian of Christianity Diana Butler Bass, Ph.D., and CAC staff member Mike Petrow, Ph.D., these theologians discuss the diverse experiences they have with Christianity.
Informed by Brian’s new book Do I Stay Christian?, season three of Learning How to See will challenge listeners to relearn how they see Christianity by embracing exploration over explanation and dialogue over dogma.
From transcending toxic theology embedded in childhood to applying ancient wisdom to modern life, this first episode sets the trajectory for an enlightening and transformative season.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Brian's ne…
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May 19, 2022
Season 3: Learning How to See: Christianity (Yes and No)
On the third season of Learning How to See, Brian McLaren invites us to see and experience Christianity in new ways. Exploring sections from his new book Do I Stay Christian? Brian helps listeners at a spiritual crossroads to honestly examine their evolving faith.
Joined by guests Diana Butler Bass, Lisa Sharon Harper, Rabbi Jill Jacobs, Valerie Kaur, Richard Rohr, James Finley, Barbara Holmes, and Tripp Fuller, Learning How to See season 3 reveals how a contemplative mind can help us see, understand, and engage with the Christian faith.
Everyone who purchases a copy of Brian's new book Do I Stay Christian? from our online bookstore will be invited to participate in an exclusive Community Read-Along on Facebook! There will be discussion questions, prompts, and shared practices as we move through the book each week.
The Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) is an educational nonprofit organization whose mission is to strengthen compassionate engagement in the world. When…
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Aug 16, 2021
Bonus: Begin Again from the Very Beginning
On this bonus episode, Brian, Gigi, Mike and Paul conclude the season in their reflections on the dynamics of suffering and the art of beginning again in order to learn how to see.
The prayers/intentions used in this season can be found here at the following links, depending on where you listen to podcasts: Apple | Spotify | RadioPublic | Stitcher
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Song: Bruce Colburn - "Us All" (Youtube)
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Brian McLaren: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at cac.org/podcastsupport Thank you!
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Aug 6, 2021
6: What Do You Want?
On this episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Gigi, Mike and Paul talk about the last two biases that look at the social-political dimensions of seeing:
Confidence Bias: We mistake confidence for competence, and we are all vulnerable to the lies of confident people. Our brains prefer a confident lie to a hesitant truth.
Conspiracy Bias: When we feel shame, we are vulnerable to stories that cast us as the victims of an evil conspiracy by some enemy “other.” Our brains like stories in which we’re either the hero or the victim ... never the villain.
The prayers/intentions used in this season can be found here at the following links, depending on where you listen to podcasts: Apple | Spotify | RadioPublic | Stitcher
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Facebook | Ins…
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Jul 30, 2021
5: Hate and Love
On this episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Gigi, Mike and Paul talk about the next two biases that look at the social-political dimensions of seeing:
Catastrophe Bias: Our brains notice sudden changes for the worse, but we easily miss slow and subtle changes over time. We think what is now normal always was and always will be. Our brains are wired for what feels normal.
Cash Bias: It is very hard to see anything that interferes with our way of making a living. Our brains are wired to see within the framework of our economy, and we see what helps us make money.
The prayers/intentions used in this season can be found here at the following links, depending on where you listen to podcasts: Apple | Spotify | RadioPublic | Stitcher
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Fac…
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Jul 24, 2021
4: Boxes Inside Boxes
On this episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Gigi, Mike and Paul talk about the next two biases that look at the social-political dimensions of seeing:
Conservative/Liberal Bias: Conservatives and Liberals see the world differently. Liberals see through a “nurturing parent” window, and Conservatives see through a “strict father” window. Liberals value moral arguments based on justice and compassion; conservatives also place a high value on arguments based on purity, loyalty, authority, and tradition. Our brains like to see as our party sees, and we flock with those who see as we do.
Comfort Bias: Our brains welcome data that allows us to relax and be happy and reject data that require us to adjust, work, or inconvenience ourselves.
The prayers/intentions used in this season can be found here at the following links, depending on where you listen to podcasts: Apple | Spotify | RadioPublic | Stitcher
Resources:
The transcript for this episode.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They…
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Jul 16, 2021
3: Mountain Climbers
On this episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Gigi, Mike and Paul talk about the next two biases that look at the social-political dimensions of seeing:
Consciousness bias: A person’s level of consciousness makes seeing some things possible and others impossible. Our brains see from a location.
Competency bias: We are incompetent at knowing how incompetent or competent we are, so we may see less or more than we think. Our brains prefer to think of ourselves as above average.
The prayers/intentions used in this season can be found here at the following links, depending on where you listen to podcasts: Apple | Spotify | RadioPublic | Stitcher
Resources:
The transcript for this episode.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Brian McLaren: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
This podcast is made possible,…
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Jul 9, 2021
2: Going Against the Flow
On this episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Gigi, Mike and Paul talk about the next three biases that look at the social dimensions of seeing:
Community bias: It is very hard to see something your group doesn’t want you to see. This is a form of social confirmation bias.
Complementarity bias: If people are nice to you, you’ll be open to what they see and have to say. If they aren’t nice to you, you won’t.
Contact bias: If you lack contact with someone, you won’t see what they see.
The prayers/intentions used in this season can be found here at the following links, depending on where you listen to podcasts: Apple | Spotify | RadioPublic | Stitcher
Resources:
The transcript for this episode.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Brian McLaren: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
This podcast…
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Jul 2, 2021
1: The Big Ditch
On this introductory episode for Season 2 of Learning How to See, Brian, Gigi, Mike and Paul review the biases and talk about two biases that set the stage for all the others:
Confirmation Bias: the human brain welcomes information that confirms what it already thinks and resist information that disturbs or contradicts what it already thinks.
Complexity Bias: the human brain prefers a simple lie to a complex truth.
The prayers/intentions used in this season can be found here at the following links, depending on where you listen to podcasts: Apple | Spotify | RadioPublic | Stitcher
Resources:
The transcript for this episode.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Brian McLaren: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to su…
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Jun 28, 2021
Coming Soon: Season 2
What could happen if we approached the world in silent wonder, with a humility and openness to learning? Brian McLaren is back for Season 2 of this powerful podcast unpacking the biases that impact the way we see—and ultimately love—ourselves and each other. From judgments made unconsciously to complacency in systemic evil, we must learn how to see if we are to learn how to transform.
In Season Two, listeners will have the chance to participate in specially curated practices for each bias, designed to stretch and deepen our hearts so that we can transform how we see into how we pray.
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Nov 9, 2020
6: Seeing, Doubt, Contemplation and Action
On this last episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Jacqui, and Richard review of the biases, and reflection on how doubt, action, and contemplation enrich our ability to see.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Brian McLaren: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Rev. Jacqui Lewis PhD: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Richard Rohr: Twitter | Sign up for his Daily Meditations here
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at cac.org/podcastsupport Thank you!
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Nov 2, 2020
5: What You Focus on Determines What You Miss
On this episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Jacqui, and Richard talk about the next three biases that look at the social-political dimensions of seeing:
Comfort/Complacency/Convenience Bias: Our brains welcome data that allows us to relax and be happy and reject data that require us to adjust, work, or inconvenience ourselves.
Catastrophe/Normalcy Bias: Our brains notice sudden changes for the worse, but we easily miss slow and subtle changes over time. We think what is now normal always was and always will be. Our brains are wired for what feels normal.
Cash Bias: It is very hard to see anything that interferes with our way of making a living. Our brains are wired to see within the framework of our economy, and we see what helps us make money.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Fa…
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Oct 26, 2020
4: What Authoritarian Leaders See
On this episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Jacqui, and Richard talk about the next two biases that look at the social-political dimensions of seeing:
Confidence Bias: We mistake confidence for competence, and we are all vulnerable to the lies of confident people. Our brains prefer a confident lie to a hesitant truth.
Conspiracy Bias: When we feel shame, we are vulnerable to stories that cast us as the victims of an evil conspiracy by some enemy “other.” Our brains like stories in which we’re either the hero or the victim ... never the villain.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Brian McLaren: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Rev. Jacqui Lewis PhD: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Richard Rohr: Twitter | Sign up for his Daily Meditations here
Thi…
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Oct 19, 2020
3: Seeing is Political
On this episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Jacqui, and Richard talk about the next three biases that look at the social-political dimensions of seeing:
Conservative/Liberal bias: Conservatives and Liberals see the world differently. Liberals see through a “nurturing parent” window, and Conservatives see through a “strict father” window. Liberals value moral arguments based on justice and compassion; conservatives also place a high value on arguments based on purity, loyalty, authority, and tradition. Our brains like to see as our party sees, and we flock with those who see as we do.
Consciousness bias: A person’s level of consciousness makes seeing some things possible and others impossible. Our brains see from a location.
Competency bias: We are incompetent at knowing how incompetent or competent we are, so we may see less or more than we think. Our brains prefer to think of ourselves as above average.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode.
Brian's e-book: Why…
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Oct 12, 2020
2: Seeing Is A Social Act
On this episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Jacqui, and Richard talk about the next three biases that look at the social dimensions of seeing:
Community bias: It is very hard to see something your group doesn’t want you to see. This is a form of social confirmation bias.
Complementarity bias: If people are nice to you, you’ll be open to what they see and have to say. If they aren’t nice to you, you won’t.
Contact bias: If you lack contact with someone, you won’t see what they see.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Brian McLaren: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Rev. Jacqui Lewis PhD: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Richard Rohr: Twitter | Sign up for his Daily Meditations here
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our…
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Oct 5, 2020
1: Why Can't We See?
On this introductory episode of Learning How to See, Brian, Jacqui, and Richard talk about two biases that set the stage for all the others:
Confirmation Bias: the human brain welcomes information that confirms what it already thinks and resist information that disturbs or contradicts what it already thinks.
Complexity Bias: the human brain prefers a simple lie to a complex truth.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode.
Brian's e-book: Why Don't They Get It?
Connect with us:
We’d love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. Send us an email at podcasts@cac.org
Center for Action and Contemplation: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Brian McLaren: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Rev. Jacqui Lewis PhD: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Richard Rohr: Twitter | Sign up for his Daily Meditations here
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued w…
playlist_add
Oct 1, 2020
Coming Soon: Learning How to See
How do we transform and transcend our biases? From judgments made unconsciously to complacency in systemic evil, we must learn how to see if we are to learn how to transform. Center for Action and Contemplation faculty members Brian McLaren and Richard Rohr join Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis Ph.D. of New York’s Middle Church for this special six-episode podcast series Learning How to See. Listen as these three powerful public theologians discuss how seeing is social, political, and contemplative.
Learning How to See starts October 5th, 2020.
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