Thee Quaker Podcast

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Join us each week as we explore stories of spiritual courage. We’ll delve into the lives of Quakers past and present, and explore the big questions about modern life and spirituality. A podcast for spiritual seekers, lifelong Quakers, and everything in between.

Jon Watts, Georgia Sparling


    • May 14, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 34m AVG DURATION
    • 61 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Thee Quaker Podcast is an incredible resource for both newcomers to Quakerism and those already entrenched in the faith. With a mix of historical and modern topics, hosts Georgia Sparling and Jon Watts provide insightful and thought-provoking discussions on the challenges faced by Friends' meetings. The episodes are just the right length, allowing for a deep dive into each subject without feeling overwhelming.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is its ability to cater to both beginners and seasoned Quakers. For those new to Quakerism, it offers a wealth of knowledge and understanding, presenting the foundations of the faith in an accessible way. On the other hand, for experienced Quakers, it delves into more complex issues and explores different perspectives, bringing fresh insights to familiar topics.

    Additionally, the production values of this podcast are top-notch. The sound quality is excellent, making it easy to follow along with the conversations. The music integrated throughout adds a touch of ambiance that enhances the listening experience. It is evident that there is a commitment to quality, integrity, honesty, and beauty in every aspect of this podcast.

    While it is challenging to find any major flaws in this podcast, some listeners may find that certain episodes don't resonate as strongly with them personally. However, given the diverse range of topics covered by The Thee Quaker Podcast, there is sure to be something for everyone at some point.

    In conclusion, The Thee Quaker Podcast fills a much-needed void by providing an engaging platform for discussions about Quakerism's beliefs and practices. Hosts Georgia Sparling and Jon Watts effectively bring together historical context with contemporary issues faced by Friends' meetings. This podcast is beautifully produced with high production values that elevate the listening experience. Whether you are new to Quakerism or have been a part of it for years, this podcast is essential listening for anyone seeking knowledge and inspiration within this faith community.



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    Latest episodes from Thee Quaker Podcast

    Beyond the Backlash: A Quaker Perspective on DEI with Niyonu Spann

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 32:59


    As DEI Initiatives come under attack, we must move beyond surface-level diversity and allyship to embrace our fundamental interconnectedness and mutual thriving. Quakers, according to our guest Niyonu Spann, are uniquely situated to speak profound truth into this pivotal moment. Niyonu is a teacher, singer/songwriter, community activator, and the founder of Beyond Diversity 101. In this episode, she invites us to confront uncomfortable truths about power, to find harmony in dissonance like a jazz musician, and to embrace the profound Quaker practice of discernment in a world crying out for genuine connection and "fiery love."Visit the episode page for a transcript, links and discussion questions.Join Friends General Conference for the 2025 Young Adult and Youth (YAY) Gathering from July 2-6 in Clarkston, Michigan, where our theme "Peace Like a River, Joy Like a Fountain" celebrates creativity, worship, and play in an inclusive, intergenerational Quaker community. Registration and more information is available at www.fgcquaker.org/yay, and is open to young adults (18-35), youth (0-18), their families, and volunteers of all ages. The deadline for registration is June 1st, so don't delay. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Roadmap to the Apocalypse: A Quaker Guide to the End of Our World with Doug Gwyn

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2025 38:28


    Are we living through apocalyptic times? If so, how can we navigate this time of turmoil and come out on the other end with a society more whole, more just, and more guided by love? Quakers may have (part of) the answer.Quaker author and retired pastor, Doug Gwyn joins Jon Watts to explore how the "apocalyptic spirituality" of early Friends offers profound wisdom for navigating our own era of upheaval. From the nonviolent "Lamb's War" of the 1650's to the direct action of the 1960's, and right up until today, he leads us to a vision of a grassroots spiritual and cultural revolution against alienation and injustice.Visit the episode page for a transcript, links and discussion questions. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    39 Ways to (Nonviolently) Overthrow a Dictator, with George Lakey

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2025 33:38


    As our democracy faces an existential threat it's important that we look to other countries whose people have resisted autocrats and won, according to Quaker peace activist George Lakey. Lakey has been singing freedom songs in the streets since the civil rights movement, and on this week's podcast episode we talk with George about the nonviolent database he helped to assemble which shows 39 recent cases of countries whose people nonviolently overthrew a dictator.Visit the episode page for a transcript, links and discussion questions. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Can We Make America Good? with Philip Gulley

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2025 37:46


    Using both the pulpit and the page, Quaker pastor Philip Gulley has been a bold voice that challenges the church's stance on heaven and hell, LGBTQ issues, and more. As he's seen greater censorship in the publishing world, Phil has moved to an online newsletter where he questions the rise of Donald Trump and calls Christians to be more active in the pursuit of truth and justice.In this interview, Jon speaks with Phil about his changing beliefs in God, his focus post-election, and much more.Visit the episode page for a transcript, links and discussion questions. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Black Fire: African American Quakers on Spirituality and Human Rights

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2025 28:52


    Spanning more than 150 years, Black Fire brings together the words of Friends who spoke truth to power in some of America's most tumultuous times. Featuring the writing and speeches of Bayard Rustin, Bill Sutherland, Sojourner Truth and many more, this book is a unique exploration into the spirituality and activism of Black Friends, told in their own words.In partnership with Friends General Conference, we're bringing you an exclusive peek into the new audiobook of Black Fire: African American Quakers on Spirituality and Human Rights.In this behind-the-scenes episode, we'll speak with some of the book's editors and share never-before-heard excerpts from the audio version. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Our Top Episodes of 2024!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2024 26:13


    There were so many memorable moments in Season 2 of the podcast that we had to revisit a few for our final episode of 2024. We've chosen clips from interviews with famous Friends and moments of deep spiritual insight. Join us as we reflect on a meaningful year with Thee Quaker Podcast.Listen to our top five episodes:How to Vote Like a QuakerQuaker Musician Carrie Newcomer Finds Songs Out of the SilenceWhat Do Quakers Wear?How to Build a Daily Quaker PracticeWhat Do Quakers Believe?We're hiring a new podcast producer. Check out the job opening at theequaker.org/jobs.Find a transcript and discussion questions (and leave us a comment) on our episode page. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Do Quakers Celebrate Christmas?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2024 31:46


    ‘Tis the season to answer one of the Internet's most burning questions…Do Quakers celebrate Christmas? We called up Friends from around the globe to find the answer(s), and you might be surprised at what they say. Visit our episode page to comment on this episode, for discussion questions, and for a transcript.Thank you to our sponsor Right Sharing of World ResourcesDo you want to have conversations about global equity? Are you interested in connecting with like minded people who are interested in building a more just world? Join Right Sharing of World Resources the 3rd Tuesday of each month on Zoom. Hosted by Nathan Kleban, these Conversations will explore sharing the world's resources and how this might emerge in our day-to-day lives.Learn more at https://rswr.org/community-engagement. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Undoing Racism Within And Without: A Black Quaker's Pledge

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2024 32:00


    “It's my responsibility and obligation as a Quaker to keep Dr. Martin Luther King's dream alive,” says James Varner. And that's what he's done for more than 60 years. In this episode, James shares his passion to promote equality and love in Quaker circles and beyond.Discussion questions, a transcript, and a link to the full interview with James can be found on our episode page. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    A Palestinian Quaker's Perspective On The War In Gaza

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2024 36:31


    On our final episode of Season 2, we sit down with Walid Mosarsaa, a US-based Palestinian Quaker who works with refugees. Walid shares what it was like to grow up in Palestine under Israeli occupation, his views on pacifism in the midst of the Israel-Hamas war, and how he's trying to live out his Quaker faith.We know this is a complicated topic, and this episode presents just one person's perspective. We welcome listener comments and ways that you are navigating this topic as Friends. Please leave your thoughts on the episode page. You can also find a reading list from Walid and our friend Max Carter. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Meet the Quaker Who Ran Against President Biden

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2024 33:06


    Why would a virtually unknown Quaker entrepreneur attempt the impossible and run for president of the United States (in 2024)? And how in the world did he win a primary? On today's episode, we to talk to former presidential candidate Jason Palmer and find out.Visit QuakerPodcast.com for transcripts, links, and more! Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    How to Vote Like a Quaker

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2024 43:46


    On the eve of a major U.S. presidential election, we're exploring what it means to be a politically engaged Friend. We'll hear from Diane Randall and Emily Provance, who will offer hope and guidance on how to engage faithfully. They'll address voting, political violence, and engaging with people who have different opinions.And if a Quaker government sounds good right about now, then you definitely need to hear our segment on the rise and fall of a Quaker-run colony!Philadelphia's Arch Street Meeting House (ASMH) has been the site of many important events in Quaker history, and we're celebrating its 220th Anniversary on Sunday, Oct. 27th. All are invited to worship with the Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia and later enjoy family-friendly Fall activities like pumpkin carving, historic interpreters, and sweet treats. Whether you're a local or from out of town, ASMH invites all to explore the museum and join our community of 52,000 annual visitors. We also welcome volunteers! Check our website for the latest hours and sign up for our newsletter at HistoricASMH.org.Friends-Montessori School in Asheville, North Carolina  is one of countless organizations affected by Hurricane Helene. Please contact them if you're interested in helping them during this time. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Why Are There So Many Quaker Organizations?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2024 39:22


    FCNL, QVS, FWCC, AFSC…there are so many Quaker nonprofits and their acronyms can leave your head swimming, so today we're going to explore where they all came from. How have they served Quaker communities? We'll explore the work of these groups — from serving chocolate soup to German children during World War I to a brand new organization that is supporting Quaker ministers. And then we'll check in about how it's going at our own nonprofit. What have we learned in the past year? What's been challenging? We'll sit down with some of the people who have been instrumental in Thee Quaker's growth.Friends-Montessori School is an independent elementary school in Asheville, North Carolina that serves children ages 6-12. Based on Montessori and Quaker practices and values, our holistic, self-directed education honors the child and their place in society by fostering self, community, cultural, environmental, and spiritual awareness. We invite prospective parents as well as Friends who want to invest in the future of Quaker education to contact Canaan Brackins at canaan@friends-montessori.org.  Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Speaking Truth To Power: Answering The Call

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2024 44:30


    Indianapolis First Friends is a semi-programmed meeting that has seen an influx in membership since returning to in-person services after the pandemic. That has meant lots of people who are new to Quakerism. It also means lots of people who are unacquainted with the many Friends who have dedicated their lives to “Speaking Truth to Power.”On this episode, Pastor Bob Henry shares a message that explores the life of outspoken feminist, pacifist, and abolitionist Lucretia Mott. We'll also hear how music plays a part in this meeting and hear vocal ministry during waiting worship.World Quaker Day!Following a successful World Plenary Meeting, Friends World Committee for Consultation invites all Quakers to download the World Plenary Epistle and other documents outlining the experience. And then, share the epistle and other resources with your Friends church or meeting on World Quaker Day, Sunday, Oct. 6! Head to fwcc.world to learn more and take part.Sign up for our live Zoom event: Help! There's an Election Coming. Join us Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 7 pm ET. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    A Walk to the Underground Railroad Tree

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2024 34:02


    Today, we're going on a walk to see a tree that has been a witness to the Underground Railroad. It's a tree that sheds light on Quakers and slavery. A tree that's been around as long as the United States.So, put on your sneakers and take a walk with our producer Georgia and historian James Shields as we uncover the rich history of brave Africans seeking freedom and the Quakers who helped them through these North Carolina woods.NEWS!Join us for our free Zoom event, Help! There's An Election Coming! on Tuesday, October 1 at 7 p.m. Eastern with Diane Randall and Emily Provance. We'll talk about how Quakers can engage meaningfully during and after this election season. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Can A Quaker School Fix a Broken System?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2024 38:43


    Friends schools are known for their holistic approach to education, and Friends Center for Children in New Haven, Connecticut, is no different. But this early childhood program has gone a few steps further. They have piloted life-changing initiatives that ensure their school community is representative of the community in which they live — from rent-free homes for teachers to tuition on a sliding scale that makes Friends Center affordable for all families.Featured in the New York Times and on CBS News, Friends Center is getting noticed as they embody the Quaker Testimonies in new and creative ways.For more information, visit our episode page. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Hope, Humility and Humor from a Bad Quaker

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2024 43:35


    Popular Quaker author Brent Bill has written about prayer, how to live an abundant life, and sacred silence. Considering himself a “fellow traveler” rather than an expert, Brent invites his readers to join him as he explores topics of faith through a Quaker lens.On this episode, Georgia sits down with Brent to discuss the Christian life, his self-proclaimed status as a “bad Quaker,” and lots more. Join us for this thoughtful and hope-filled conversation.Visit our episode page for more information, discussion questions, and a transcript. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    The Astronomical Life Of Quaker Scientist Jocelyn Bell Burnell

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2024 36:42


    As a PhD student in 1967, Jocelyn Bell Burnell made an astronomical discovery, only to have the Nobel Prize in Physics for that discovery go to her male colleagues instead. But instead of becoming jaded by the misogyny she's experienced, Jocelyn has become a beacon for women in the sciences.On today's episode, we talk to Jocelyn about her Quaker roots, her move from evangelical to liberal Quakerism, her life in science, black holes, and more!Visit our episode page for a transcript, discussion questions, and to share your thoughts. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Embracing God's Gentle Love

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2024 30:07


    It is easy to be hard on ourselves and hard on other people, but what if we practiced gentleness? And what if we believed that God's posture toward us is gentle?That's the message that Quaker pastor Hannah Lutz brings us on today's episode, and it's one that she learned when she realized there was “chainmail” around her heart. Join us as we hear some wise words from Hannah.Find more information, discussion questions, and a transcript on our episode page. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    A Quaker Road Trip: Touring the Quaker Scenic Byway

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2024 36:20


    Thousands of Quakers left the American South in the 1800s because of their anti-slavery beliefs. And many of those Friends settled in Ohio. On today's episode, local historian Christine Snyder takes us on a trip along the Quaker Scenic Byway in Ohio and shares some of the remarkable stories of these Quakers — tales of daring rescues, an outspoken minister who prophesied war, and so much more. Put on your seat belt and join us for a very Quaker road trip.Visit our episode page for more information on the Quaker Scenic Byway, a transcript and discussion questions. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Michael Birkel on Quakers, Mysticism, and Reading the Bible

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2024 36:28


    As a professor at Earlham College, Michael Birkel was known for his dynamic and thoughtful teaching style. As an author, he is known for capturing Quaker theology and practice in an accessible way. Today, we've got this thoughtful Quaker scholar on the show to share his thoughts on mysticism, spiritual reading, and giving the next generation of Quakers room to express their faith.Visit the episode page for discussion questions, a transcript of this episode and more! Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    What Do Quakers Believe?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2024 37:55


    Unlike most Christian traditions, Quakers intentionally have no creed and so, of course, the question they get asked the most is: What do Quakers believe? There are no easy answers, but we've posed the question to long-time Quakers, new Quakers, Quaker scholars, and more. Join us as we explore this nuanced and rich discussion of Quaker beliefs.Visit our episode page for links, discussion questions, and the transcript. Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Quakers in China

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2024 39:28


    We don't hear much about Quakers in China, but from the very early days of the faith, Friends felt called to go to the Far East. On today's episode, we explore the history of Quaker missionaries in China — both evangelical and liberal — as they lived and worked amid wars, internal conflict, and the rise of the Chinese Communist Party. And we ask, how can Friends renew their concern for this region? Become a monthly supporter! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Swimming With Spirit: Growing Out Of A Colonial Mindset

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2024 33:13


    On today's vocal ministry episode, Quaker pastor Mark Pratt-Russum shares a message inspired by a recent trip to Hawaii in which he was confronted with the uncomfortable marriage of Christianity and colonialism. Mark is the pastor of West Hills Friends, a Quaker meeting in Portland, Oregon, and he speaks to the need to attend to Spirit in the natural world.Transcripts, discussion questions and more on our episode page. Help us reach our goal of 100 monthly supporters! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    The Making of Monopoly: How Quakers Shaped the World's Most Popular Board Game

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2024 28:54


    Monopoly is a game of wealth and property…or is there more to it? In this episode, we explore the twisty history of the world's most popular board game, from its anti-capitalist origins to the Quakers who transformed the game into what it is today. This is a story of innovative women, big business, deceit, and the unknown legacy of Friends.We've got photos, additional Monopoly info, a transcript, discussion questions, and more on our episode page. Help us reach our goal of 100 monthly supporters! Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Can Somebody Say Amen?: Inside A Quaker Church In Kenya

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2024 43:37


    This week we're sharing our first international vocal ministry episode by taking you inside a Kenyan service! While visiting Kisumu, Kenya, our colleague, Hannah Mayer got to visit Friends Church Manyatta — a lively evangelical Quaker congregation in the city of Kisumu.Join us as we hear a message of faith, peace, and new life from Reverend Pamela Igesa as well as songs and testimonials from the congregation.Find a transcript of this episode with discussion questions, see photos from Manyatta, and more on the episode page. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Quakers in Kenya: Exploring the Faith of East African Friends

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2024 42:27


    If you're looking for Quakers, go to Kenya. There are more Quakers in the East African country than anywhere else in the world, and their numbers are growing. Although American missionaries first introduced them to the faith, Kenyan Friends have made Quakerism their own. On this episode, we explore the history of Friends in Kenya, their commitment to peace, the challenges they face today, and why their numbers are growing so quickly.Visit the episode page at QuakerPodcast.com for discussion questions, a transcript, and links. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Quaker Pacifism: A Better Way to Engage in Conflict

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2024 48:46


    George Lakey is a well known Quaker pacifist, but he didn't grow up that way. In fact, it wasn't until George became involved with Quakers that he came to believe in the power of nonviolence.Now in his 80s, George has spent most of his life as an advocate for social change through nonviolent direct action. In fact, he wrote the book on it. In this episode, he shares his deep conviction that pacifism is the way forward, even in an age of troubling conflict and polarization. We asked George about his lifetime of nonviolent activism, and why Quakers are pacifists.Find more resources, discussion questions, and a transcript on the episode page.  Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    How to Build a Daily Quaker Practice

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2024 41:26


    Do you have a daily spiritual practice?On today's episode, we're exploring ways that spiritual discipline has helped Quakers connect with the Spirit today and throughout history. We made this episode to celebrate the launch of our newest project, the Daily Quaker Message, a daily Quaker devotional designed to nourish your spiritual journey.Visit our episode page for more information on the topics we discussed today, discussion questions, a transcript and more. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Quakers and Poetry: Two Friends Share Their Love of Verse

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2024 44:50


    April is National Poetry Month in the US, and we're celebrating with an episode on Quakers and poetry. We know many people love poetry, but it can also feel opaque. So, we called up two Friends who have found a home both in Quakerism and in verse.In our first segment, bestselling author Parker Palmer tells us how he gained a love of poetry and how it helped him during a mental health crisis. He'll also help us find a way into the practice of reading poetry for ourselves.For the second half of our episode, award-winning writer Leah Naomi Green gives us an intimate and experiential look into how her poetry connects with motherhood and the natural world.Learn more about our guests, find discussion questions and more on the episode page. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Lost and Found: Finding God's Voice in the Wilderness

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2024 39:01


    Feeling lost, lonely, and directionless is part of the human experience, just ask the Biblical prophet Elijah. Faced with death for his convictions, he ran into the wilderness and found a God who met him in his grief and despair.On today's episode, Quaker pastor Andy Stanton-Henry shares a message of getting lost and being found by the still small voice of the divine. And he helps us lean in to hear it, too.Transcripts, discussion questions, and more information about our guest can be found  on our episode page. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    The Daily Quaker Message is Here!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2024 1:06


    We have an announcement!  Our newest project has launched.The Daily Quaker Message is an invitation to enter into a closer relationship with Spirit. Every day in your inbox, you'll get an email with a short Quaker message to meditate on. Often that will be a quote but sometimes a song, a poem, a piece of art, or a video. We'll also share an exercise to try in your own life and a query to consider throughout the week. These daily emails are short but powerful, and we hope they will help you move toward a deeper spiritual practice.Like the podcast, it's free to subscribe! Sign up at DailyQuaker.com. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Bayard Rustin: The Unseen Architect of the Civil Rights Era

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2024 40:32


    Lifelong Quaker Bayard Rustin was the architect of the 1963 March on Washington, a mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and an international peace activist. His identity as a gay man kept him in the shadows for decades, but he's become something of an icon in recent years. In this episode, we explore the life and work of this groundbreaking Friend who made an indelible mark on American history.Visit our episode page for more resources on Bayard Rustin, discussion questions, a transcript and more! Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Quakers in the Civil Rights Movement: Stories of Peaceful Persistence

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2024 36:09


    Quakers have a long history of peacefully fighting for racial equality, and there is a lot to explore about their work during the Civil Rights Movement. In this episode, we share first-hand stories of Friends whose spiritual courage led them into the heart of the movement, even when they were beaten and threatened with death. Quakers were among the most influential advocates of nonviolent direct action, choosing boycotts and sit-ins over fists and guns. Today, we explore their work and how it affected one of the most important eras in American history.Visit our episode page for links to books by our guests, discussion questions, a transcript, and to comment. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Quaker Musician Carrie Newcomer Finds Songs in the Silence

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2024 38:22


    Award-winning singer-songwriter Carrie Newcomer has been called a “prairie mystic” for her meditative, poetic lyrics and folk-infused melodies. Carrie is also a thoughtful Quaker, whose faith comes through in her music, her poetry, and her podcast with author Parker Palmer.On this episode, Carrie shares how she came to Quakerism, how she writes from a place of meditation and silence, and, of course, she sings a few songs for us.Learn more about Carrie Newcomer on her website.Visit our episode page for discussion questions, a transcript, to comment, and more!From our sponsor:New Garden Friends Meeting in Greensboro, North Carolina, is accepting applications for a pastoral minister position through April 15, 2024. Find the job description at https://ngfm.org/pastoral-minister-job-description. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    What Do Quakers Wear?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2024 40:21


    Quaker clothing is something of a mystery for non-Quakers. For more than 300 years, Quakers have been known for their “plain dress.” But what does plain dress mean today?On this episode, we talk to Quakers who have felt a spiritual leading to dress simply, but as you'll hear, that means different things to different people.Comment on this episode, consider our discussion questions, download a transcript and more on our episode page! Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Finding a Spiritual Home: What Does Quakerism Look Like for the Next Generation?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2024 32:54


    When a midweek worship group for young Quakers sprung up at Portland Friends Meeting in Maine, it ruffled some feathers. Some wondered why they needed to meet separately. On today's episode, we hear how this group of millennials found a spiritual home in not one but two weekly meetings for worship.Our episode page has discussion questions, a transcript, a place to comment, and more. Check it out!  Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Black Quakers Build The Beloved Community on Their Own Terms

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2024 42:19


    Why are there so few Black Quakers in mostly-white Quaker meetings? What can white Quakers do to support and encourage Friends of Color? And what can we learn from how Black Friends worship? This season we're taking inspiration from Civil Rights organizer Bayard Rustin and looking at how Black Quakers are at work in the world, starting with our first episode of Season 2.In this episode, we talk to Ayesha Imani, a founder of the Ujima Friends Meeting and Ujima Friends Peace Center.Through Ujima, Black Friends have created a vibrant hub of worship, culture, and peace by providing for the needs of their Philadelphia neighborhood as they try to embody the Beloved Community — an idea championed by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in which everyone is cared for and there is no poverty, hunger or hate.Go to the episode page for discussion questions, a transcript and to leave a comment. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Season 2 is almost here!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2024 2:42


    This year, we're exploring the life and work of spiritually courageous Friends like Bayard Rustin. We're delving into burning questions about Quakerism. We're going inside Quaker meetings across the U.S. and the world. And we'll introduce you to new voices!Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss an episode.Leave a comment and find transcripts and discussion questions for every episode at QuakerPodcast.com.  Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Our Top 5 Episodes of the Year

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2023 24:16


    We're looking back at some of your favorite episodes and ours with our year-end countdown. Join us as we remember some of the most thoughtful moments in our first season. Find links to all of the episodes mentioned, a transcript, and discussion questions at https://quakerpodcast.com/our-top-5-episodes-of-the-year. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Finding Silence in a Post-Twitter Life

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2023 18:12


    Should Quakers still be on social media? In this bonus episode, author and professor Wess Daniels talks about why he left Facebook and Twitter, and how he's encouraging his students to take a step back from the algorithm to explore an age-old Quaker practice: silence.Visit our episode page to learn more about Wess Daniels, share your thoughts, read our transcript, and review our discussion questions. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    How to Start a Quaker Nonprofit

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 2, 2023 42:28


    For the final episode of Season 1, we're taking a peek behind the curtain of Thee Quaker Project — from inspiration to realization. If you love a good origin story or you've got a big idea that you want to turn into a reality, this is the episode for you.Help us shape Season 2 by taking our survey.Visit our episode page to leave a comment, read our discussion questions, and download the transcript. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    God is Everywhere: Vocal Ministry in Everyday Conversation

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2023 45:47


    Quakers tend to think of “vocal ministry” as someone standing and speaking in a Meeting for Worship. But when we approached O about doing an episode with us, she invited us to expand our thinking. Join us as we walk with O to listen for God in everyday conversations. Visit our episode page to comment on this episode, read the transcript and ponder our discussion questions.Join our giving team!  Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Quaker Online Communities

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2023 40:47


    From Reddit to Discord, Twitter to Facebook… we take a tour of the places where Quakers (and the Quaker curious!) are congregating online.Visit our episode page for links to the online communities we discussed, discussion questions, and more.Become a monthly patron of Thee Quaker Project! Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    James Nayler: The Quaker Who Rode Into Bristol

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 12, 2023 34:46


    On a cold, rainy day in October 1656, early Quaker leader James Nayler rode into the city of Bristol on a horse. He was surrounded by his followers singing “hosanna” and laying garments in his path in a re-enactment of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. But by December, Nayler had been convicted of blasphemy, had his forehead branded with a B, and faced other public humiliations before being locked away in Bridewell Prison.We've got questions. On this week's episode, we've assembled an all-star team of Quaker historians to discuss the Nayler incident. Why did Nayler do it? What was he trying to accomplish? Why was the government response so brutal? How was the incident a turning point for the Quaker movement, and what questions does it bring up for Quakers today?Join us, along with historians Stuart Masters, Carole Spencer, Doug Gwyn, and Max Carter (with a special appearance from Johnny Dean of “Delicious Digger Memes for Seventeenth Century Dissident Teens”!) in an attempt to answer these questions, and more. Check out our episode page for more on our guests, discussion questions, and a copy of the transcript.Become a Thee Quaker Patron! Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    The Weird World of Religious Radicals in 17th Century England

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2023 38:12


    Ranters, Diggers, Levellers, Muggletonians… These religious and political sects disrupted an already wild era in 17th century England. But who were these radicals and what do they have to do with Quakers? We'll take a look in this week's episode.Subscribe so you don't miss an episode!Learn more about early Quakers with our episode George Fox and the Birth of Quakerism.After you listen, tell us what you thought of this episode on our episode page.You can also leave us a voicemail with your thoughts at 215-278-9411. We might share them on a future episode. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Social Justice, Lenny Kravitz, and a Quaker Meeting Mixtape

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2023 32:28


    Mark Condo brings an unexpected inspiration to his latest sermon series: rock and roll.The pastor of Reedwood Friends Church has created a mixtape for his Portland, Oregon congregation full of songs that have preached to him. He shares the first track in his vocal ministry mixtape with us this week: a sermon inspired by Matthew 25 and "Does Anybody Out There Even Care" by Lenny Kravitz.Listen to Mark Condo's full sermon, find discussion questions, review the transcript, and leave a comment on our episode page! Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Weird Quaker Names Go Viral on Twitter

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2023 30:51


    Isabella Rosner never imagined that her list of strange Quaker names would be liked, shared, and retweeted millions of times.We asked Isabella where she found these unusual names (i.e. Experience Cuppage), and how deep dive into women's needlework revealed not only Quirky Quaker monikers but also a colorful and lesser known side of Quakerism.Visit our episode page for more info on Isabella, a transcript, discussion questions, and more!We're hiring a social media and newsletter coordinator!Become a monthly supporter of Thee Quaker Project!  Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    A Quaker Murder Mystery Writer Gets Cozy with Crime

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2023 29:30


    Quaker author Edith Maxwell is a best-selling mystery writer with more than 30 novels in publication. She says it's her series about a young Quaker midwife solving murders and delivering babies that is closest to her heart.In this episode, Edith shares her journey from earning a PhD in linguistics to a career in fiction and how it connects with her Quaker faith.Tell us what you thought of this episode by leaving a comment on the episode page.Support the Thee Quaker Podcast! Find out how you can become a monthly donor. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Quakers in Australia

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2023 33:54


    Our Executive Director Jon Watts didn't know much about Quakers in Australia before his recent trip Down Under. On this episode, he shares the stories he discovered of Aussie Friends — from the beginnings of Quakerism on the continent to the present concerns of Australian Quakers.Tell us what you thought of this episode by leaving a comment on the episode page.Want to support Thee Quaker Podcast? Find out how you can become a monthly donor right here. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    What if God is the Rest of Your Body?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2023 33:54


    This week, we take you inside of Durham Friends Meeting (the Maine one!) where Craig Freshley asks the provocative question, “What if God was the rest of your body?” Have a listen and tell us your thoughts on Craig's message.Visit the episode page to leave a comment, read the transcript, and more!Help Thee Quaker Podcast expand by becoming a monthly supporter! Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

    Farming the 'Wild East': A Friends school graduate finds a calling in farm life

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 9, 2023 32:18


    Friends school graduate Noah Poulos is putting down roots as he and his wife start an organic farm in rural North Carolina. But in the process, he has found his Quaker roots are also sprouting into a spiritual awakening he never expected.On this episode, Noah shares his journey to Wild East Farm. Become a monthly supporter!Sign up for the Daily Quaker Message.

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