In this episode, we’re tackling the problem of restless dissatisfaction and how the pursuit of contentment can offer a way forward. For many of us, there’s an underlying sense that something in life—who we are, what we have, or where we’re headed—should be different. The constant pull of “what if” and “if only” can leave us feeling ungrounded and yearning for a sense of fulfillment that always seems just out of reach. As I looked back on my journal entries this year, I noticed contentment as a recurring theme in my conversations with God and with my spiritual director, reminding me of the peace and satisfaction that comes with learning to be present in the here and now.

Drawing from my own journey and insights from Brian Zahnd’s The Wood Between the Worlds, I’ll share practical reflections on how shifting our mindset toward contentment can bring new clarity and peace. This isn’t just about settling—it’s about recognizing how an inner posture of contentment can transform our experience, even when circumstances remain the same. Whether you’re a “Frustrated Idealist” in the Enneagram triad (Types One, Four, and Seven) or simply someone who finds themselves often seeking more, join me as we explore the ways contentment can anchor us in purpose, grace, and genuine satisfaction.



Links:
The Wood Between the Worlds by Brian Zahnd
The Journey Toward Wholeness by Suzanne Stabile
The Benefits of Looking Back podcast episode



_______________________________________________________

Connect with Gem on Instagram and learn more on the Unhurried Living website and her new book, Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads

Learn about PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us

In this episode, we’re tackling the problem of restless dissatisfaction and how the pursuit of contentment can offer a way forward. For many of us, there’s an underlying sense that something in life—who we are, what we have, or where we’re headed—should be different. The constant pull of “what if” and “if only” can leave us feeling ungrounded and yearning for a sense of fulfillment that always seems just out of reach. As I looked back on my journal entries this year, I noticed contentment as a recurring theme in my conversations with God and with my spiritual director, reminding me of the peace and satisfaction that comes with learning to be present in the here and now.
Drawing from my own journey and insights from Brian Zahnd’s The Wood Between the Worlds, I’ll share practical reflections on how shifting our mindset toward contentment can bring new clarity and peace. This isn’t just about settling—it’s about recognizing how an inner posture of contentment can transform our experience, even when circumstances remain the same. Whether you’re a “Frustrated Idealist” in the Enneagram triad (Types One, Four, and Seven) or simply someone who finds themselves often seeking more, join me as we explore the ways contentment can anchor us in purpose, grace, and genuine satisfaction.
 
Links:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wood-Between-Worlds-Poetic-Theology/dp/151400562X">The Wood Between the Worlds</a> by Brian Zahnd</li>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Journey-Toward-Wholeness-Enneagram-Transformation/dp/1514001160">The Journey Toward Wholeness</a> by Suzanne Stabile</li>
<li><a href="https://omny.fm/shows/unhurried-living/discernment-the-benefits-of-looking-back">The Benefits of Looking Back</a> podcast episode</li>
</ul>
 
_______________________________________________________
Connect with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gemfadling/">Gem on Instagram</a> and learn more on the <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/c807b8df-15a1-423a-8649-9db69f7aa374/shows/2a294677-14cc-4597-8409-8efcedfed2cd/episodes/1ff79710-f260-475a-8a39-22315b98892e/www.unhurriedliving.com/gem">Unhurried Living website</a> and her new book, <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/c807b8df-15a1-423a-8649-9db69f7aa374/shows/2a294677-14cc-4597-8409-8efcedfed2cd/episodes/c6bd1beb-251f-42f0-92ea-21c6790a5380/www.unhurriedliving.com/holdthatthought">Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads</a>
Learn about <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/pace">PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care</a>
Discover more Christian podcasts at <a href="http://www.lifeaudio.com">lifeaudio.com</a> and inquire about advertising opportunities at <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/contact-us">lifeaudio.com/contact-us</a>

316: Finding Contentment Right Where You Are

The problem of burnout among Christian leaders has become an epidemic in recent years. I’ve seen Christian leaders taking emergency sabbaticals more often than at any other point in my 40 years of ministry. The souls of many Christian leaders are in trouble.
How do you care for your soul?
How would that help address the weariness and overwhelm many are experiencing?

I’ll be talking about soul care with our guest today, Mindy Caliguire, on the Unhurried Living podcast.

Mindy Caliguire is the co-founder and president of Soul Care. In the past, she has served in executive leadership at Gloo, and the Willow Creek Association (now the Global Leadership Network). She speaks into and advises organizations including Compassion International, ECFA, National Christian Foundation, and many churches and ministries across the US and beyond. Mindy’s books include:
Discovering Soul Care
Spiritual Friendship
STIR
The book we’re talking about today, Ignite Your Soul.

____________________________________________________________

Connect with Alan on LinkedIn or learn more about Unhurried Living programs on their website. 

Learn about PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us

The problem of burnout among Christian leaders has become an epidemic in recent years. I’ve seen Christian leaders taking emergency sabbaticals more often than at any other point in my 40 years of ministry. The souls of many Christian leaders are in trouble.
<ul>
<li>How do you care for your soul?</li>
<li>How would that help address the weariness and overwhelm many are experiencing?</li>
</ul>
I’ll be talking about soul care with our guest today, <a href="https://www.soulcare.com/about-us">Mindy Caliguire</a>, on the Unhurried Living podcast.
Mindy Caliguire is the co-founder and president of <a href="https://www.soulcare.com/">Soul Care</a>. In the past, she has served in executive leadership at <a href="https://www.gloo.us">Gloo</a>, and the Willow Creek Association (now the <a href="https://globalleadership.org/summit/?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw-JG5BhBZEiwAt7JR61VLfZsZfhX9R1D5VkQbbIEopHBntK8FL7PDs3RSmFD4N2FtWU9RIBoCZpYQAvD_BwE">Global Leadership Network</a>). She speaks into and advises organizations including Compassion International, ECFA, National Christian Foundation, and many churches and ministries across the US and beyond. Mindy’s books include:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Discovering-Soul-Care-Resources/dp/0830835091">Discovering Soul Care</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Friendship-Soulcare-Resources-Caliguire/dp/0830835105">Spiritual Friendship</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/STIR-Transformation-Relationships-Mindy-Caliguire/dp/0310494826">STIR</a></li>
<li>The book we’re talking about today, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ignite-Your-Soul-Exhaustion-Flourishing/dp/1641588551">Ignite Your Soul</a>.</li>
</ul>
____________________________________________________________
Connect with Alan on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanfadling/">LinkedIn</a> or learn more about <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/alan">Unhurried Living programs</a> on their website. 
Learn about <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/pace">PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care</a>
Discover more Christian podcasts at <a href="http://www.lifeaudio.com">lifeaudio.com</a> and inquire about advertising opportunities at <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/contact-us">lifeaudio.com/contact-us</a>

315: Lighting the Path to Flourishing w/Mindy Caliguire

Adoption is often framed by happy narratives, but the reality is that many adoptees struggle with unaddressed trauma and issues of identity and belonging. Adoptees often spend the majority of their youth without the language to explore the grief related to adoption or the permission to legitimize their conflicting emotions.



Today, Gem is speaking with counselor and author Cameron Lee Small about his new book, The Adoptee’s Journey. 



You might be wondering what adoption has to do with spiritual leadership. Well, here at UL, we care very much about people and their stories. And this story is very personal to me in that I am an adoptee.



Gem is also sharing her own journey as an adoptee and giving you real time insight into my current personal process. She shares things that she's never spoken in a public setting. 



Learn more about adoption and Cameron's story:
Adoptee Consciousness Model
Harlow's Monkey // JaeRan Kim
Grace Newton // Trauma and Healing of Consciousness
Adoptive Parenting Consultation Group hosted by Cam
Schedule Cam to speak and train at your next event
Cam's main website

Connect with Cameron on Social media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camleesmall/
Instagram: @therapyredeemed
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapyredeemed

_______________________________________________________________

Connect with Gem on Instagram and learn more on the Unhurried Living website and her new book, Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads

Learn about PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care

Adoption is often framed by happy narratives, but the reality is that many adoptees struggle with unaddressed trauma and issues of identity and belonging. Adoptees often spend the majority of their youth without the language to explore the grief related to adoption or the permission to legitimize their conflicting emotions. Today, Gem is speaking with counselor and author Cameron Lee Small about his new book, The Adoptee’s Journey.  You might be wondering what adoption has to do with spiritual leadership. Well, here at UL, we care very much about people and their stories. And this story is very personal to me in that I am an adoptee. Gem is also sharing her own journey as an adoptee and giving you real time insight into my current personal process. She shares things that she's never spoken in a public setting.  Learn more about adoption and Cameron's story:<ul><li><a href="https://redthreadbroken.com/2022/06/23/out-of-the-fog-and-into-consciousness-a-model-of-adoptee-awareness/" target="_blank">Adoptee Consciousness Model</a></li><li><a href="https://harlows-monkey.com/" target="_blank">Harlow's Monkey // JaeRan Kim</a></li><li><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35221135/" target="_blank">Grace Newton // Trauma and Healing of Consciousness</a></li><li><a href="https://community-adoption-support.mailchimpsites.com/" target="_blank">Adoptive Parenting Consultation Group hosted by Cam</a></li><li><a href="https://therapyredeemed.wordpress.com/schedule-your-next-event-here/" target="_blank">Schedule Cam to speak and train at your next event</a></li><li><a href="https://therapyredeemed.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Cam's main website</a></li></ul>Connect with Cameron on Social media:<ul><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/camleesmall/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/camleesmall/</a> Instagram: @therapyredeemed Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/therapyredeemed" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/therapyredeemed</a></li></ul>_______________________________________________________________Connect with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gemfadling/" target="_blank">Gem on Instagram</a> and learn more on the <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/c807b8df-15a1-423a-8649-9db69f7aa374/shows/2a294677-14cc-4597-8409-8efcedfed2cd/episodes/1ff79710-f260-475a-8a39-22315b98892e/www.unhurriedliving.com/gem" target="_blank">Unhurried Living website</a> and her new book, <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/c807b8df-15a1-423a-8649-9db69f7aa374/shows/2a294677-14cc-4597-8409-8efcedfed2cd/episodes/c6bd1beb-251f-42f0-92ea-21c6790a5380/www.unhurriedliving.com/holdthatthought" target="_blank">Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads</a>Learn about <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/pace" target="_blank">PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care</a>

Adoption is often framed by happy narratives, but the reality is that many adoptees struggle with unaddressed trauma and issues of identity and belonging. Adoptees often spend the majority of their youth without the language to explore the grief related to adoption or the permission to legitimize their conflicting emotions.

Welcome to the Unhurried Living Podcast, where, today, Gem is talking with author Cameron Lee Small about his book, "The Adoptee's Journey's Journey, as well as sharing her own adoption journey.

314: Embracing Your Journey to Belonging with Cameron Lee Small

Thirty years ago, I was visiting one of my very favorite sorts of places—a bookstore. It was a Barnes & Noble in Pasadena, California, and I was browsing through the Faith section of books. There I saw a book by an author I’d heard of but never read. The author was Thomas Merton, and the title was New Seeds of Contemplation. 



It was Fall 1994 when I picked up a copy of Thomas Merton’s book New Seeds of Contemplation. I was a college pastor in the San Gabriel Valley in Southern California, and I’d been on a spiritual formation journey for a few years by then. 



Today, I’m sharing from my journal entries in that season as I read the book. The first chapter posed a question I was asking at the time: “What is contemplation?” There weren’t many of my colleagues who were using that sort of language about their spiritual lives, but I was finding it increasingly inviting in my own life with God. 



One of Merton’s insights that spoke me then was that, “In contemplation...we know by `unknowing." 



__________________________________________________________________

Connect with Alan on LinkedIn or learn more about Unhurried Living programs on their website. 

Thirty years ago, I was visiting one of my very favorite sorts of places—a bookstore. It was a Barnes & Noble in Pasadena, California, and I was browsing through the Faith section of books. There I saw a book by an author I’d heard of but never read. The author was Thomas Merton, and the title was <a href="https://www.amazon.com/New-Seeds-Contemplation-Thomas-Merton/dp/0811217248" target="_blank">New Seeds of Contemplation</a>.  It was Fall 1994 when I picked up a copy of <a href="https://merton.org/chrono.aspx" target="_blank">Thomas Merton</a>’s book New Seeds of Contemplation. I was a college pastor in the San Gabriel Valley in Southern California, and I’d been on a spiritual formation journey for a few years by then.  Today, I’m sharing from my journal entries in that season as I read the book. The first chapter posed a question I was asking at the time: “What is contemplation?” There weren’t many of my colleagues who were using that sort of language about their spiritual lives, but I was finding it increasingly inviting in my own life with God.  One of Merton’s insights that spoke me then was that, “In contemplation...we know by `unknowing."  __________________________________________________________________Connect with Alan on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanfadling/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> or learn more about <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/alan" target="_blank">Unhurried Living programs</a> on their website.

Thirty years ago, I was visiting one of my very favorite sorts of places—a bookstore. It was a Barnes & Noble in Pasadena, California, and I was browsing through the Faith section of books. There I saw a book by an author I’d heard of but never read. The author was Thomas Merton, and the title was New Seeds of Contemplation. 

I can’t wait to share what I learned then and since from this book on today’s episode of the Unhurried Living podcast.

313: A Journey from Head Knowledge to Heart Connection (Alan on Thomas Merton)

“Your identity is a gift to be received, not a paycheck to be earned.” I love this profound insight that echoes throughout Alan’s writings. They resonate with a truth we often overlook. They capture the essence of grace—a grace that defines our existence not by what we achieve, but by who we are as God’s beloved.



Our lives are gifts and yet how often do we find ourselves caught in the trap of earning mode? We measure our worth by what we do, by how much we accomplish, and by the approval we receive from others. This striving can become exhausting, leaving us empty and disconnected from the truth that our identity is not something to be earned but something to be received and embraced.



Gem offers a 3 ideas to help you embrace your belovedness as you learn that your productivity is NOT tied to your worth.

_________________________________________________________________

Connect with Gem on Instagram and learn more on the Unhurried Living website and her new book, Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads

Learn about PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care

“Your identity is a gift to be received, not a paycheck to be earned.” I love this profound insight that echoes throughout Alan’s writings. They resonate with a truth we often overlook. They capture the essence of grace—a grace that defines our existence not by what we achieve, but by who we are as God’s beloved. Our lives are gifts and yet how often do we find ourselves caught in the trap of earning mode? We measure our worth by what we do, by how much we accomplish, and by the approval we receive from others. This striving can become exhausting, leaving us empty and disconnected from the truth that our identity is not something to be earned but something to be received and embraced. Gem offers a 3 ideas to help you embrace your belovedness as you learn that your productivity is NOT tied to your worth._________________________________________________________________Connect with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gemfadling/" target="_blank">Gem on Instagram</a> and learn more on the <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/c807b8df-15a1-423a-8649-9db69f7aa374/shows/2a294677-14cc-4597-8409-8efcedfed2cd/episodes/1ff79710-f260-475a-8a39-22315b98892e/www.unhurriedliving.com/gem" target="_blank">Unhurried Living website</a> and her new book, <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/c807b8df-15a1-423a-8649-9db69f7aa374/shows/2a294677-14cc-4597-8409-8efcedfed2cd/episodes/c6bd1beb-251f-42f0-92ea-21c6790a5380/www.unhurriedliving.com/holdthatthought" target="_blank">Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads</a>Learn about <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/pace" target="_blank">PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care</a>

“Your identity is a gift to be received, not a paycheck to be earned.” I love this profound insight that echoes throughout Alan’s writings. They resonate with a truth we often overlook. They capture the essence of grace—a grace that defines our existence not by what we achieve, but by who we are as God’s beloved.

Our lives are gifts and yet how often do we find ourselves caught in the trap of earning mode? We measure our worth by what we do, by how much we accomplish, and by the approval we receive from others. This striving can become exhausting, leaving us empty and disconnected from the truth that our identity is not something to be earned but something to be received and embraced.

Welcome to Unhurried Living Podcast

312: Why Your Worth Isn't Tied to Your Productivity

The parables are perhaps the most potent expression of the message of Jesus. Parables were one of his key teaching strategies. But even his inner circle struggled to understand what he was saying. 



Today, I’ll be sharing a review of a new book from Dallas Willard on the parables titled The Scandal of the Kingdom.  



Through insightful analysis and practical wisdom, Willard empowers readers to transform their lives and communities by embodying the radical love, compassion, and justice exemplified in Jesus's parables. This book is a beacon of hope for Christians seeking to deepen their faith and live more authentically in accordance with the teachings of Christ. Willard empowers us to:
Become more passionate about living the gospel in the full scope of Jesus's vision for us
Better share the faith of Jesus with those disillusioned with Christianity
Unlock the excitement of living in the upside-down kingdom of God
Share the gospel of Jesus in the way he did



Content of additional interest:
The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard
The Spirit of the Disciplines by Dallas Willard



__________________________________________________________________

Connect with Alan on LinkedIn or learn more about Unhurried Living programs on their website. 

The parables are perhaps the most potent expression of the message of Jesus. Parables were one of his key teaching strategies. But even his inner circle struggled to understand what he was saying.  Today, I’ll be sharing a review of a new book from <a href="https://dwillard.org/">Dallas Willard</a> on the parables titled <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Scandal-Kingdom-Parables-Jesus-Revolutionize/dp/0310367948">The Scandal of the Kingdom</a>.   Through insightful analysis and practical wisdom, Willard empowers readers to transform their lives and communities by embodying the radical love, compassion, and justice exemplified in Jesus's parables. This book is a beacon of hope for Christians seeking to deepen their faith and live more authentically in accordance with the teachings of Christ. Willard empowers us to:<ul><li>Become more passionate about living the gospel in the full scope of Jesus's vision for us</li><li>Better share the faith of Jesus with those disillusioned with Christianity</li><li>Unlock the excitement of living in the upside-down kingdom of God</li><li>Share the gospel of Jesus in the way he did</li></ul> Content of additional interest:<ul><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Divine-Conspiracy-Rediscovering-Hidden-Life/dp/0060693339">The Divine Conspiracy</a> by Dallas Willard</li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Spirit-of-Disciplines-audiobook/dp/B00266YL56">The Spirit of the Disciplines</a> by Dallas Willard</li></ul> __________________________________________________________________Connect with Alan on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanfadling/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> or learn more about <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/alan" target="_blank">Unhurried Living programs</a> on their website.

The parables are perhaps the most potent expression of the message of Jesus. Parables were one of his key teaching strategies. But even his inner circle struggled to understand what he was saying. 

Today, I’ll be sharing a review of a new book from Dallas Willard on the parables titled The Scandal of the Kingdom. Welcome to the Unhurried Living podcast.

311: The Scandal of the Kingdom

Here’s a sobering idea: It is impossible to know and understand 100% of a situation. Now, I know that may sound a bit jarring for some of us. Personally, I like to believe I always have a handle on exactly what’s going on. I’m a master mind-reader, and an excellent future-predictor—or at least I’d like to think so! Of course, I’m speaking tongue-in-cheek here.



In truth, I don’t know the future and no one has complete knowledge of any situation. Once I settle into that reality, something beautiful begins to happen: curiosity emerges. And curiosity leads me to ask better questions, which broadens my perspective and deepens my understanding.



The small phrase "I Wonder..." is the core of what we're talking about today.



_________________________________________________________________

Connect with Gem on Instagram and learn more on the Unhurried Living website and her new book, Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads

Here’s a sobering idea: It is impossible to know and understand 100% of a situation. Now, I know that may sound a bit jarring for some of us. Personally, I like to believe I always have a handle on exactly what’s going on. I’m a master mind-reader, and an excellent future-predictor—or at least I’d like to think so! Of course, I’m speaking tongue-in-cheek here. In truth, I don’t know the future and no one has complete knowledge of any situation. Once I settle into that reality, something beautiful begins to happen: curiosity emerges. And curiosity leads me to ask better questions, which broadens my perspective and deepens my understanding. The small phrase "I Wonder..." is the core of what we're talking about today. _________________________________________________________________Connect with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gemfadling/" target="_blank">Gem on Instagram</a> and learn more on the <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/c807b8df-15a1-423a-8649-9db69f7aa374/shows/2a294677-14cc-4597-8409-8efcedfed2cd/episodes/1ff79710-f260-475a-8a39-22315b98892e/www.unhurriedliving.com/gem" target="_blank">Unhurried Living website</a> and her new book, <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/c807b8df-15a1-423a-8649-9db69f7aa374/shows/2a294677-14cc-4597-8409-8efcedfed2cd/episodes/c6bd1beb-251f-42f0-92ea-21c6790a5380/www.unhurriedliving.com/holdthatthought" target="_blank">Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads</a>

Here’s a sobering idea: It is impossible to know and understand 100% of a situation. Now, I know that may sound a bit jarring for some of us. Personally, I like to believe I always have a handle on exactly what’s going on. I’m a master mind-reader, and  an excellent future-predictor—or at least I’d like to think so! Of course, I’m speaking tongue-in-cheek here.

In truth, I don’t know the future and no one has complete knowledge of any situation. Once I settle into that reality, something beautiful begins to happen: curiosity emerges. And curiosity leads me to ask better questions, which broadens my perspective and deepens my understanding.

This is where we’re headed today, on the Unhurried Living Podcast.

310: The Surprising Power of Curiosity

Growing in grace is not about thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less. If you’ve ever felt like you’re struggling to grow or that life’s challenges keep setting you back, you’re not alone. The journey toward spiritual maturity is rarely straightforward, and it’s easy to feel like we’re not progressing the way we should. We live in a culture that craves quick fixes and instant results, but real growth takes time, intention, and grace.  



Today, we’re diving into what it means to grow in grace, why it’s so difficult, and how embracing our weaknesses can draw us closer to God’s generosity and strength. That’s our focus today on the Unhurried Living podcast.



References in the podcast:
Eugene Peterson - On Living Well
Alan Fadling - An Unhurried Life
Teresa of Avila - The Interior Castle
Thomas H. Green - Darkness in the Marketplace

____________________________________________________

Connect with Alan on LinkedIn or learn more about Unhurried Living programs on their website. 

Growing in grace is not about thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less. If you’ve ever felt like you’re struggling to grow or that life’s challenges keep setting you back, you’re not alone. The journey toward spiritual maturity is rarely straightforward, and it’s easy to feel like we’re not progressing the way we should. We live in a culture that craves quick fixes and instant results, but real growth takes time, intention, and grace.   Today, we’re diving into what it means to grow in grace, why it’s so difficult, and how embracing our weaknesses can draw us closer to God’s generosity and strength. That’s our focus today on the Unhurried Living podcast. References in the podcast:<ul><li>Eugene Peterson - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Living-Well-Reflections-Wisdom-Walking/dp/1601429797" target="_blank">On Living Well</a></li><li>Alan Fadling - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unhurried-Life-Following-Jesus-Rhythms/dp/0830846727" target="_blank">An Unhurried Life</a></li><li>Teresa of Avila - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Interior-Castle-Teresa-Avila/dp/1434116395" target="_blank">The Interior Castle</a></li><li>Thomas H. Green - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Darkness-Marketplace-Christian-Prayer-World/dp/0877932301" target="_blank">Darkness in the Marketplace</a></li></ul>____________________________________________________Connect with Alan on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanfadling/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> or learn more about <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/alan" target="_blank">Unhurried Living programs</a> on their website.

Growing in grace is not about thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less. If you’ve ever felt like you’re struggling to grow or that life’s challenges keep setting you back, you’re not alone. The journey toward spiritual maturity is rarely straightforward, and it’s easy to feel like we’re not progressing the way we should. We live in a culture that craves quick fixes and instant results, but real growth takes time, intention, and grace. 

Today, we’re diving into what it means to grow in grace, why it’s so difficult, and how embracing our weaknesses can draw us closer to God’s generosity and strength. That’s our focus today on the Unhurried Living podcast.

309: No Instant Saints: Embracing the Pace of Grace (Alan)

Jodi Grubbs fell headlong into the endless rush and exhaustion of hustle culture. After leaving her childhood home on the island of Bonaire in the Caribbean, she had assumed the rapid pace and stress of city living in the States. Soon she realized God was bidding her to a return to the "island time" of her past.



In time Jodi found sanctuary and ways to care for her soul by making space for God, others, and herself. Evoking the contentment she once had in the gentle rhythms of Bonaire, she learned of another path: a path away from burnout and toward restoration. And she invites you, too, to grasp a sustainable approach to life anchored by the forced pauses of spiritual practices and an openhandedness before God. Begin to rest and let go of the need to keep up, as you learn to live slowly.



Jodi Grubbs is the podcast host of Our Island in the City and a slow-living advocate. She is the author of Live Slowly: A Gentle Invitation to Exhale, a children’s book, The Island Adventures of Lili and Oliver, and coauthor of a Bible study called The Friendship Café. Jodi her daughter, Lili, live outside Raleigh, North Carolina.



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Connect with Gem on Instagram and learn more on the Unhurried Living website and her new book, Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads

Jodi Grubbs fell headlong into the endless rush and exhaustion of hustle culture. After leaving her childhood home on the island of Bonaire in the Caribbean, she had assumed the rapid pace and stress of city living in the States. Soon she realized God was bidding her to a return to the "island time" of her past. In time Jodi found sanctuary and ways to care for her soul by making space for God, others, and herself. Evoking the contentment she once had in the gentle rhythms of Bonaire, she learned of another path: a path away from burnout and toward restoration. And she invites you, too, to grasp a sustainable approach to life anchored by the forced pauses of spiritual practices and an openhandedness before God. Begin to rest and let go of the need to keep up, as you learn to live slowly. Jodi Grubbs is the podcast host of <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/our-island-in-the-city-podcast/id1494249906" target="_blank">Our Island in the City</a> and a slow-living advocate. She is the author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Live-Slowly-Gentle-Invitation-Exhale/dp/1514007088" target="_blank">Live Slowly: A Gentle Invitation to Exhale</a>, a children’s book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Island-Adventures-Lili-Oliver-Glass/dp/1441563970" target="_blank">The Island Adventures of Lili and Oliver</a>, and coauthor of a Bible study called The Friendship Café. Jodi her daughter, Lili, live outside Raleigh, North Carolina. __________________________________________Connect with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gemfadling/" target="_blank">Gem on Instagram</a> and learn more on the <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/c807b8df-15a1-423a-8649-9db69f7aa374/shows/2a294677-14cc-4597-8409-8efcedfed2cd/episodes/1ff79710-f260-475a-8a39-22315b98892e/www.unhurriedliving.com/gem" target="_blank">Unhurried Living website</a> and her new book, <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/c807b8df-15a1-423a-8649-9db69f7aa374/shows/2a294677-14cc-4597-8409-8efcedfed2cd/episodes/c6bd1beb-251f-42f0-92ea-21c6790a5380/www.unhurriedliving.com/holdthatthought" target="_blank">Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads</a>

Jodi Grubbs fell headlong into the endless rush and exhaustion of hustle culture. After leaving her childhood home on the island of Bonaire in the Caribbean, she had assumed the rapid pace and stress of city living in the States. Soon she realized God was bidding her to a return to the "island time" of her past.

In time Jodi found sanctuary and ways to care for her soul by making space for God, others, and herself. Evoking the contentment she once had in the gentle rhythms of Bonaire, she learned of another path: a path away from burnout and toward restoration. And she invites you, too, to grasp a sustainable approach to life anchored by the forced pauses of spiritual practices and an openhandedness before God. Begin to rest and let go of the need to keep up, as you learn to live slowly.

Welcome to the Unhurried Living Podcast where this week we are talking about how we live into a live of slow that is no less full.

308: Live Slowly (Gem with Jodi Grubbs)

When Jesus calls us to follow him, he invites into a narrow way—onto a narrow path. And narrow doesn’t immediate strike us as inviting. But Jesus also tells us that he’s come so that we could experience an abundant, rich life. That’s inviting. How does the narrow way of Jesus lead us to the sort of fullness he promises? 



In my first interview of the Fall season, I’m glad to be able to share a conversation I had with Rich Villodas a few months ago about his new book, The Narrow Path: How the Subversive Way of Jesus Satisfies Our Souls. I love that title. In it, he offers a vision of how following the way of Jesus is what we most deeply and truly want. 



Rich Villodas is the Brooklyn-born lead pastor of New Life Fellowship, a large multiracial church with more than seventy-five countries represented in Elmhurst, Queens. Rich holds a Master of Divinity from Alliance Theological Seminary. He enjoys reading widely, preaching and writing on contemplative spirituality, justice-related matters, and the art of preaching. He's been married to Rosie since 2006 and they have two beautiful children, Karis and Nathan.



Previous Unhurried Living Podcast interviews with Rich:
The Deeply Formed Life



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Connect with Alan on LinkedIn or learn more about Unhurried Living programs on their website. Learn more about Unhurried Leaders membership.

When Jesus calls us to follow him, he invites into a narrow way—onto a narrow path. And narrow doesn’t immediate strike us as inviting. But Jesus also tells us that he’s come so that we could experience an abundant, rich life. That’s inviting. How does the narrow way of Jesus lead us to the sort of fullness he promises?  In my first interview of the Fall season, I’m glad to be able to share a conversation I had with <a href="https://www.richvillodas.com/" target="_blank">Rich Villodas</a> a few months ago about his new book, <a href="https://www.richvillodas.com/the-narrow-path" target="_blank">The Narrow Path: How the Subversive Way of Jesus Satisfies Our Souls</a>. I love that title. In it, he offers a vision of how following the way of Jesus is what we most deeply and truly want.  Rich Villodas is the Brooklyn-born lead pastor of New Life Fellowship, a large multiracial church with more than seventy-five countries represented in Elmhurst, Queens. Rich holds a Master of Divinity from Alliance Theological Seminary. He enjoys reading widely, preaching and writing on contemplative spirituality, justice-related matters, and the art of preaching. He's been married to Rosie since 2006 and they have two beautiful children, Karis and Nathan. Previous Unhurried Living Podcast interviews with Rich:<ul><li><a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/blog/podcast177" target="_blank">The Deeply Formed Life</a></li></ul> ____________________________________________________Connect with Alan on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanfadling/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> or learn more about <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/alan" target="_blank">Unhurried Living programs</a> on their website. Learn more about <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/unhurriedleaders" target="_blank">Unhurried Leaders membership</a>.

When Jesus calls us to follow him, he invites into a narrow way—onto a narrow path. And narrow doesn’t immediate strike us as inviting. But Jesus also tells us that he’s come so that we could experience an abundant, rich life. That’s inviting. How does the narrow way of Jesus lead us to the sort of fullness he promises?  

 
Welcome to the Unhurried Living podcast, where this week Alan is interviewing our dear friend, Rich Villodas.

307: The Narrow Way of Jesus (Alan with Rich Villodas)

Many of us feel hurried, and hurry is costing us more than we realize. The Unhurried Living Podcast with Alan and Gem Fadling provides resources and training to help Christian leaders learn to live and lead from fullness rather than on empty. Great influence begins on the inside, in your soul. Learning healthy patterns of rest and work can transform your life—your daily influence. Built on more than twenty-five years of experience at the intersection of spiritual formation and leadership development, Unhurried Living seeks to inspire people around the world to rest deeper so they can live fuller and lead better.

If this podcast helps you be an unhurried leader, be sure to check out our website https://www.unhurriedliving.com/, where we have books, resources, and featured membership communities so you can learn with fellow leaders how to lead from abundance instead of lack.

Many of us feel hurried, and hurry is costing us more than we realize. The Unhurried Living Podcast with Alan and Gem Fadling provides resources and training to help Christian leaders learn to live and lead from fullness rather than on empty. Great influence begins on the inside, in your soul. Learning healthy patterns of rest and work can transform your life—your daily influence. Built on more than twenty-five years of experience at the intersection of spiritual formation and leadership development, Unhurried Living seeks to inspire people around the world to rest deeper so they can live fuller and lead better.
If this podcast helps you be an unhurried leader, be sure to check out our website <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/">https://www.unhurriedliving.com/</a>, where we have books, resources, and featured membership communities so you can learn with fellow leaders how to lead from abundance instead of lack.

Unhurried Living | Helping Christians Rest Deeper & Lead Better

Many of us feel hurried, and hurry is costing us more than we realize. The Unhurried Living Podcast with Alan and Gem Fadling provides resources and training to help Christian leaders learn to live and lead from fullness rather than on empty. Great influence begins on the inside, in your soul. Learning healthy patterns of rest and work can transform your life—your daily influence as well as your leadership. Built on more than twenty-five years of experience at the intersection of spiritual formation and leadership development, Unhurried Living seeks to inspire people around the world to rest deeper so they can live fuller and lead better.

If this podcast helps you be an unhurried leader, be sure to check out our website https://www.unhurriedliving.com/, where we have books, resources, and featured membership communities so you can learn with fellow Christian leaders how to lead from abundance instead of lack.

Many of us feel hurried, and hurry is costing us more than we realize. The Unhurried Living Podcast with Alan and Gem Fadling provides resources and training to help Christian leaders learn to live and lead from fullness rather than on empty. Great influence begins on the inside, in your soul. Learning healthy patterns of rest and work can transform your life—your daily influence as well as your leadership. Built on more than twenty-five years of experience at the intersection of spiritual formation and leadership development, Unhurried Living seeks to inspire people around the world to rest deeper so they can live fuller and lead better.
If this podcast helps you be an unhurried leader, be sure to check out our website <a href="https://www.unhurriedliving.com/">https://www.unhurriedliving.com/</a>, where we have books, resources, and featured membership communities so you can learn with fellow Christian leaders how to lead from abundance instead of lack.

Unhurried Living | Helping Christians Rest Deeper & Lead Better

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