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In this NBN episode, host Hollay Ghadery interviews Stephanie Cesca about her acclaimed novel, Dotted Lines (Guernica Editions, 2024) which has been named a finalist for the Rakuten kobo Emerging Writer Prize. Dotted Lines is a powerful and binary-breaking story that explores the complexities of families, bringing to brilliant light the vital but underrepresented perspective of a non-traditional family where the step-father is the hero, and it's the person who owes you nothing that gives you everything.  Abandoned as a child, Melanie Forsythe seeks stability and belonging after her mom's boyfriend is left to raise her. Despite her raw deal, Melanie grows up to have a good head on her shoulders and a strong bond with her stepdad. But her dream of having a family of her own is shattered when she suffers tragedy and betrayal. Still, the relationship with her step-dad—the one that's illustrated with a dotted line in her family tree—ultimately inspires her to create the life and family she wants. “As a family dissolves and reunites, Cesca's seamless writing traces the unpredictable ways in which those we love stray and return to us throughout our lives. Clean and understated, Cesca's novel reveals the complicated layers of an unorthodox childhood through compelling characters willing to open themselves to new truths.” —Ibi Kaslik, author of Skinny, New York Times Bestseller About Stephanie Cesca: Stephanie Cesca was born and raised in Toronto, where she lives with her husband and three children. A former newspaper editor in both Canada and Europe, she holds an English degree from Western University, a journalism degree from Toronto Metropolitan University and a Certificate of Creative Writing from the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies. Her work has been shortlisted for the Penguin Random House Canada Student Award for Fiction and The Marina Nemat Award for Creative Writing. Dotted Lines is her first novel. About Hollay Ghadery:Hollay Ghadery is an Iranian-Canadian multi-genre writer living in Ontario on Anishinaabe land. She has her MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Guelph. Fuse, her memoir of mixed-race identity and mental health,moir. Her collection of poetry, Rebellion Box was released by Radiant Press in 2023, and her collection of short fiction, Widow Fantasies, was released with Gordon Hill Press in fall 2024. Her debut novel, The Unraveling of Ou, is due out with Palimpsest Press in 2026, and her children's book, Being with the Birds, with Guernica Editions in 2027. Hollay is the host of the 105.5 FM Bookclub, as well as a co-host on HOWL on CIUT 89.5 FM. She is also a book publicist, the Regional Chair of the League of Canadian Poets and a co-chair of the League's BIPOC committee, as well as the Poet Laureate of Scugog Township. Learn more about Hollay at www.hollayghadery.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/literature

Carolyn Whitzman, senior researcher at the University of Toronto School of Cities and author of the recently published book “Home Truths: Fixing Canada's Housing Crisis.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Georgina Cannon D.Msc.C.I. M.Ht. M.Nlp Instructor, University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies.Author, Speaker, Hypnotist, Life Coach, Regression and Relationship Therapist Prior to a 22+ year career in coaching and counselling, Georgina Cannon spent 23 years in journalism and leading corporate communications agencies, travelling worldwide assisting clients in designing communications strategies.In 1997 she left the corporate world to study various psychotherapy models including Gestalt, NLP, Psychodrama, Hypnotherapy and Regression therapies. In 1998 she opened The Ontario Hypnosis Centre which grew to become Canada's largest hypnosis clinic and school. Along the way the CBC recorded a series called Past Life Investigation in her clinic, and she also wrote books, CD's, workshops and ran trainings around the world on the mind/body connection. In 2016 she sold this business to concentrate on teaching, writing and seeing clients in the clinic. She currently specializes in enabling clinic clients to achieve major life changes, manage relationship issues for singles and couples as well as heal personal and emotional issues. She is teaching both at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies – a 3 semester hypnosis and NLP program and privately Past Life Regression and Life Between Lives facilitation. Since the Covid 19 crisis she has been running a free weekly meditation series at noon on Fridays. She is currently writing her next book, Changing Karma featuring some high-profile names who have overcome turbulence in life and moved into a life of peace and success.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.

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My guest on this episode is Deborah Dundas. Deborah is a writer and journalist who has worked as a television producer and as the Books Editor for the Toronto Star, where she is currently an opinion editor. Her work has appeared in numerous publications, including Maclean's, the Globe and Mail, the National Post, Canadian Notes and Queries, the Belfast Telegraph, and the Sunday Independent. She also teaches Creative Non-Fiction at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies. Deborah's first book is On Class, which was published by Biblioasis Books in 2023. That book was A Hamilton Review of Books Best Book of 2023 and was shortlisted for the 2024 Speaker's Book Award. The Winnipeg Free Press called On Class “a nifty, provocative little book.” Deborah and I talk about her work on the most picked-over and discussed literary story of the decade, which are the revelations about the late Alice Munro and her family, and about how she initially wanted to say no to working on that story. We talk about some of the progress and great conversations about class she has seen witnessed publishing her book, and how she feels just a little less like an outsider in Canada's literary culture.   This podcast is produced and hosted by Nathan Whitlock, in partnership with The Walrus. Music: "simple-hearted thing" by Alex Lukashevsky. Used with permission.  

This week on Finding Your Bliss, we have a show devoted to fabulous women who not only are Toronto celebrities, but they love to give back! So this week, Bliss Coach and Celebrity Interviewer Judy Librach is joined by two wonderful personalities! First up, Zoomer Radio's very own television and radio host, Liz West is on the program.  Liz has been engaging audiences for over two decades as a television reporter, anchor and host for several networks including CTV, CityTV, CHCH, and Amazon Prime. Liz's credits include CityPulse News, Star!, eNow, Square Off, Rags to Red Carpet and No Fun Intended. Liz has done hundreds of interviews with musicians, actors, newsmakers, and politicians, covering everything from arts and culture to news and lifestyle content, but her heart lies with music having kicked off her career in her 20's, working with concert promoter Michael Cohl and spending a decade at Concert Productions International.  And now Liz can be heard every day as the host of The Afternoon Express on Zoomer Radio.  So Liz West has really come full circle to be playing great music everyday, interviewing musicians and also building this really cool museum called the Toronto Music Experience. She's also a public speaking coach, a creator of the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies - Virtual Communicator course, she's an author and an active member of the Toronto music community. Also on the program is Visionary, Speaker, and Influencer Meagan Elieff! As well, Meagan is a Producer of hundreds of events, ranging from Pop-up Markets, Speakers Series, Galas and Charity Events. As Founder of Modern Day Wife, she has taken her concept and vision and turned it into a tangible real-life community inspiring thousands across the globe. On paper, she has a degree in Public Relations, Tourism Management and Visual Merchandising. Through hands-on experience and various positions she's held Internationally, she has obtained knowledge that has been extremely beneficial in achieving real results and exponential business growth. Previous Founder of Project YOU: A women's networking group whose main mission is to elevate women and the world. She created and sold this business all under the age of 30 years old. She had an extremely successful Corporate Career at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts for 5 years as a Retail Buyer, Merchandiser and Manager, building a gift shop from the ground up that generated over 3/4 of a Million Dollars in sales annually. Currently living in Toronto, Canada and Florida — covering the North American Market with her connections — she is married to the CEO OF YESA, Corrie Elieff and has a fur baby named Mopar. For more on Finding Your Bliss, you can follow us @theblissminute on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. Or you can visit our online magazine at findingyourbliss.com and take one step closer to finding your bliss. Listen live every Saturday at 1pm on Zoomer Radio

One day after the weekend targeting of Bais Chaya Mushka, a Jewish girl's school in Toronto, by suspects who sprayed the front of building with bullets, the school's students and their families have gone from initial shock and fear, to the determination not to be intimidated. They turned out in large numbers at a popular park to join the city's Chabad Jewish community for a fun-filled day of balloons, clowns, archery and a parade marking the religious festival of Lag b'Omer. News of the pre-dawn shooting targeting the private Jewish school rocked the community when they learned about it after Shabbat ended late Saturday. It is the first time that Canada's largest city has experienced a similar attack to what several Jewish schools in Montreal went through, shortly after Oct. 7. Some leaders are calling this incident a “heinous act of hate” and a “brazen and deliberate attempt to intimidate” the Jewish community. But as The CJN Daily's Ellin Bessner found out when she attended the celebrations on Sunday, the school is finding a lot of support from the wider Jewish world, who will be present on Monday morning as the school reopens its doors. On today's episode, you'll hear from parent Mirel Freund daughter of Rabbi Mendel and Toby Bernstein who founded the all-girl's school, as well as from the school principal Rabbi Yaakov Vidal. What we talked about: Read why security equipment at Bais Chaya Mushka School helped deter the suspects from causing more damage on May 25, in The CJN. Join Mizrachi Canada and the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto in a rally of solidarity outside Bais Chaya Mushka School at 8:30 a.m. Monday May 27. Details here. Learn more about the Hebrew schools which Bais Chaya Mushka School founder Toby Bernstein now runs in Vaughan, Ont. in The CJN. Credits: The CJN Daily is written and hosted by Ellin Bessner (@ebessner on Twitter). Zachary Kauffman is the producer. Michael Fraiman is the executive producer. Our theme music is by Dov Beck-Levine. We're a member of The CJN Podcast Network. To subscribe to this podcast, please watch this video. Donate to The CJN and receive a charitable tax receipt by clicking here. Hear why The CJN is important to me.

It's been several years since Ben Volman was on Bagels and Blessings.  It was great to have him on the show again. Ben Volman is the Canadian Regional Director of the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations. He came to faith in Yeshua while he was a university student in philosophy and was a founding member of Canada's first Messianic Jewish congregation. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from the Toronto School of Theology at the University of Toronto. Ben has had a highly varied career winning two national religious journalism awards, writing an award-winning book on Messianic Jewish history, planting Messianic congregations, and mentoring Messianic leaders in Canada. He has travelled across North America and around the world teaching on Messianic Judaism in Europe and South-East Asia. Ben recently retired from Chosen People Ministries Canada where he served as the founding rabbi of Kehillat Eytz Chaim/Tree of Life Messianic Congregation in Toronto. He is currently in the Doctor of Practical Theology program at McMaster Divinity College in Hamilton, ON. He and his wife Sue live in Toronto, with their son, Jon. 

Max Harwood and Fr Richard René discuss what a mission is, why they are important, the challenges and logistics of starting a mission, and the vision of St Silas Mission in Mission, British Columbia, Canada.  1.) Have a question about Orthodox Christianity? Submit it here: https://forms.gle/RNvnj8G4ALctqWhb6 2.) Sign up for St Silas Mission email updates: https://mailchi.mp/1507861e3e82/st-silas-mission-and-sanctuary 3.) Contact Fr Richard directly: richard.p.rene@gmail.com Born in Seychelles and growing up in East and Southern Africa, Fr. Richard René is a convert to Orthodoxy and a priest of the Orthodox Church in America. He lives in Chilliwack, British Columbia, with his wife Jaime. He has three children. He has worked as a Chaplain in the federal correctional system and is currently overseeing Chaplaincy services in the Pacific region for Correctional Service Canada. He directs St. Silas Orthodox Prison Ministry Society (orthodoxprisonministry.ca), and is currently working on his doctoral dissertation at Regis-St. Michael's College, Toronto School of Theology. He is the author of three Young Adult fantasy novels, available on Amazon under the pseudonym 'Richard Garcia Morgan.' Max Harwood attends Holy Nativity Orthodox Church in Langley, BC, Canada. He has an Undergrad in Biblical Studies (Columbia Bible College) and a Masters in Theology (Orthodox School of Theology, University of Toronto).

The federal Liberals and NDP are attempting to negotiate a national pharmacare program in order to keep their political alliance alive and prevent a snap election. Is that a sound basis for a program securing pharmaceuticals for Canadians dealing with a need for medications including significant, even life-threatening illness? Would a national pharmacare program be funded sufficiently that the newest and most effective drugs for cancer, heart disease, diabetes and other serious illnesses become and/or remain available, or would a pharmacare bureaucracy be underfunded or over-regulated to the point pharmaceutical companies would not make the most recent and effective/expensive drugs available to Canada and Canadians? Guest: Dr. Neil Rau. Infectious dieases specialist, assistant professor University of Toronto School of Medicine. Former member of the Ontario committee to evaluate pharmaceuticals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen to Rev. Dr. Richard Topping (President of Vancouver School of Theology) share with Rev. Dr. Andrew Stirling (Ambassador, Canadian Bible Society) about the influences that helped shape his faith journey. Recorded as part of the series, The Word for Life: When Scripture Comes Alive, Richard talks about how the Bible is key to our understanding of God, how it stokes our imagination to help us see what we can't see fully yet, and how looking through the lens of Scripture frames our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.  ---Learn more about the Canadian Bible Society: biblesociety.caHelp people hear God speak: biblesociety.ca/donateConnect with us on Instagram: @canadianbiblesocietyWhether you're well-versed in Scripture or just starting out on your journey, The Bible Course offers a superb overview of the world's best-selling book.  This eight-session course will help you grow in your understanding of the Bible. Watch the first session of The Bible Course and learn more at biblecourse.ca. ---Richard Topping received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies from University of Waterloo, a Master of Arts in Theology from St. Michael's University in the Toronto School of Theology and a Doctor of Philosophy in Theology from Wycliffe College, where his thesis Director was Professor John Webster. His doctoral thesis focused on theological interpretation of scripture in Hans Frei and Karl Barth.Richard was Minister at Zion and Knox Presbyterian Churches in Muskoka, Ontario from 1993-1996 and at the Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul in Montreal, Quebec, where he was Assistant Minister from 1997-1999 and Senior Minister from 2000-2009. He has written or coauthored a number of documents for the Presbyterian Church in Canada, including a Catechism for Today (2008) and Together in Ministry (2006). He currently serves on the Church Doctrine Committee for the national church.Richard taught at Presbyterian College (2001-2009) in the Montreal School of Theology at McGill University in the areas of Preaching, Pastoral theology, Introduction to Ministry and Church, Ministry and Sacraments.Richard holds the St. Andrew's Hall Chair in Studies in the Reformed Tradition and has been the Principal of Vancouver School of Theology since 2013. He teaches in the areas of Introduction to Theology, Reformation History, Christian Spirituality and Reformed Theology of the 19th and Twentieth Century. He has published in the areas of theological hermeneutics, homiletics, philosophy of religion, systematic theology and the theologies of John Calvin and Karl Barth. He has edited a collection of essays, for the 500th anniversary of the birth of John Calvin, Calvin @500, and is currently editing a series of faculty essays with Profs. Ashley Moyse and Harry Maier, Theological Ten Percent, which are an introduction to theological study. He is also working on a book which examines the role of the imagination in postmodern theology.Richard initiated a Karl Barth reading group which has been active now for 11 years. He is a regular preacher in the Vancouver area and lecturer across the country in the areas of pastoral leadership and strategic direction.Learn more about Richard Topping: vst.edu/people/richard-topping

Providence enables us to trust that history is headed somewhere, might not today be visible to sight. but faith will give way to sight if you wait on God. It's about trusting in promises that have yet to come true and I've always wondered about the truth character of a promise. It's true because you trust the person who made it but it isn't true as a fact yet. And so you're waiting for its fulfillment, but you know enough to trust the promise maker to wait on a fulfillment. And I think that's where John, you know, it's unbelief to give up that hope. You know, we are as one American preacher says: We're prisoners of hope. We're obliged to hope in a very good way to see how the grace of God will emerge here too.---Listen to Rev. Dr. Richard Topping (President of Vancouver School of Theology) share with Rev. Dr. Andrew Stirling (Ambassador, Canadian Bible Society) about the influences that helped shape his faith journey. Recorded as part of the series, The Word for Life: When Scripture Comes Alive, Richard talks about how the Bible is key to our understanding of God, how it stokes our imagination to help us see what we can't see fully yet, and how looking through the lens of Scripture frames our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.  Richard Topping received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies from University of Waterloo, a Master of Arts in Theology from St. Michael's University in the Toronto School of Theology and a Doctor of Philosophy in Theology from Wycliffe College, where his thesis Director was Professor John Webster. His doctoral thesis focused on theological interpretation of scripture in Hans Frei and Karl Barth.Richard was Minister at Zion and Knox Presbyterian Churches in Muskoka, Ontario from 1993-1996 and at the Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul in Montreal, Quebec, where he was Assistant Minister from 1997-1999 and Senior Minister from 2000-2009. He has written or coauthored a number of documents for the Presbyterian Church in Canada, including a Catechism for Today (2008) and Together in Ministry (2006). He currently serves on the Church Doctrine Committee for the national church.Richard taught at Presbyterian College (2001-2009) in the Montreal School of Theology at McGill University in the areas of Preaching, Pastoral theology, Introduction to Ministry and Church, Ministry and Sacraments.Richard holds the St. Andrew's Hall Chair in Studies in the Reformed Tradition and has been the Principal of Vancouver School of Theology since 2013. He teaches in the areas of Introduction to Theology, Reformation History, Christian Spirituality and Reformed Theology of the 19th and Twentieth Century. He has published in the areas of theological hermeneutics, homiletics, philosophy of religion, systematic theology and the theologies of John Calvin and Karl Barth. He has edited a collection of essays, for the 500th anniversary of the birth of John Calvin, Calvin @500, and is currently editing a series of faculty essays with Profs. Ashley Moyse and Harry Maier, Theological Ten Percent, which are an introduction to theological study. He is also working on a book which examines the role of the imagination in postmodern theology.Richard initiated a Karl Barth reading group which has been active now for 11 years. He is a regular preacher in the Vancouver area and lecturer across the country in the areas of pastoral leadership and strategic direction.

Exegetes have long relied on the framework of the Acts of the Apostles to understand the behavior and organization of Paul's various ekklēsiai (assemblies), or church communities, from which Christ-groups have often been conceptualized as extensions from practices of diasporic Jewish synagogues. However, Richard S. Ascough's work has been at the forefront of a scholarly movement emphasizing the relevance of data from Greco-Roman associations—occupational, cultic, ethnic, and otherwise—not only as a preferable model for understanding the constitution of early Christ-following communities, but also as fruitful comparanda for interpreting Paul's letters, such as 1 Thessalonians and Philippians.  On this episode, Dr. Ascough joined the New Books Network to discuss Early Christ Groups and Greco-Roman Associations: Organizational Models and Social Practices (Cascade Books, 2022), a collection of his articles and essays on associations from the last 25 years detailing the road to the acceptance of association data within scholarship as well as the recruitment, self-promotion, socializing, and memorializing practices that these recoveries from antiquity reveal. Ascough discusses how he carved his own niche within biblical studies, from starting as a master's student with a small group to translate previously unpublished inscriptions and papyri to ultimately showcasing the applicability of association behavior to early Christ-groups, Pauline and otherwise. Richard S. Ascough (Ph.D., Toronto School of Theology, 1997) is a Professor at the School of Religion at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He has written extensively on the formation of early Christ groups and Greco-Roman religious culture, with particular attention to various types of associations. He has published widely in the field with more than fifty articles or essays and thirteen books, including Christ Groups & Associations: Foundational Essays(Baylor U. Press, 2022), Associations in the Greco-Roman World: A Sourcebook (Baylor U. Press, 2012), and Paul's Macedonian Associations (Mohr Siebeck, 2003). He has been recognized for his innovative and effective teaching in many ways, including the two top teaching awards at Queen's University and a 3M National Teaching Fellowship (2018). Rob Heaton (Ph.D., University of Denver, 2019) hosts Biblical Studies conversations for New Books in Religion and teaches New Testament, Christian origins, and early Christianity at Anderson University in Indiana. He recently authored The Shepherd of Hermas as Scriptura Non Grata: From Popularity in Early Christianity to Exclusion from the New Testament Canon (Lexington Books, 2023). For more about Rob and his work, or to offer feedback related to this episode, please visit his website at https://www.robheaton.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Exegetes have long relied on the framework of the Acts of the Apostles to understand the behavior and organization of Paul's various ekklēsiai (assemblies), or church communities, from which Christ-groups have often been conceptualized as extensions from practices of diasporic Jewish synagogues. However, Richard S. Ascough's work has been at the forefront of a scholarly movement emphasizing the relevance of data from Greco-Roman associations—occupational, cultic, ethnic, and otherwise—not only as a preferable model for understanding the constitution of early Christ-following communities, but also as fruitful comparanda for interpreting Paul's letters, such as 1 Thessalonians and Philippians.  On this episode, Dr. Ascough joined the New Books Network to discuss Early Christ Groups and Greco-Roman Associations: Organizational Models and Social Practices (Cascade Books, 2022), a collection of his articles and essays on associations from the last 25 years detailing the road to the acceptance of association data within scholarship as well as the recruitment, self-promotion, socializing, and memorializing practices that these recoveries from antiquity reveal. Ascough discusses how he carved his own niche within biblical studies, from starting as a master's student with a small group to translate previously unpublished inscriptions and papyri to ultimately showcasing the applicability of association behavior to early Christ-groups, Pauline and otherwise. Richard S. Ascough (Ph.D., Toronto School of Theology, 1997) is a Professor at the School of Religion at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He has written extensively on the formation of early Christ groups and Greco-Roman religious culture, with particular attention to various types of associations. He has published widely in the field with more than fifty articles or essays and thirteen books, including Christ Groups & Associations: Foundational Essays(Baylor U. Press, 2022), Associations in the Greco-Roman World: A Sourcebook (Baylor U. Press, 2012), and Paul's Macedonian Associations (Mohr Siebeck, 2003). He has been recognized for his innovative and effective teaching in many ways, including the two top teaching awards at Queen's University and a 3M National Teaching Fellowship (2018). Rob Heaton (Ph.D., University of Denver, 2019) hosts Biblical Studies conversations for New Books in Religion and teaches New Testament, Christian origins, and early Christianity at Anderson University in Indiana. He recently authored The Shepherd of Hermas as Scriptura Non Grata: From Popularity in Early Christianity to Exclusion from the New Testament Canon (Lexington Books, 2023). For more about Rob and his work, or to offer feedback related to this episode, please visit his website at https://www.robheaton.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Exegetes have long relied on the framework of the Acts of the Apostles to understand the behavior and organization of Paul's various ekklēsiai (assemblies), or church communities, from which Christ-groups have often been conceptualized as extensions from practices of diasporic Jewish synagogues. However, Richard S. Ascough's work has been at the forefront of a scholarly movement emphasizing the relevance of data from Greco-Roman associations—occupational, cultic, ethnic, and otherwise—not only as a preferable model for understanding the constitution of early Christ-following communities, but also as fruitful comparanda for interpreting Paul's letters, such as 1 Thessalonians and Philippians.  On this episode, Dr. Ascough joined the New Books Network to discuss Early Christ Groups and Greco-Roman Associations: Organizational Models and Social Practices (Cascade Books, 2022), a collection of his articles and essays on associations from the last 25 years detailing the road to the acceptance of association data within scholarship as well as the recruitment, self-promotion, socializing, and memorializing practices that these recoveries from antiquity reveal. Ascough discusses how he carved his own niche within biblical studies, from starting as a master's student with a small group to translate previously unpublished inscriptions and papyri to ultimately showcasing the applicability of association behavior to early Christ-groups, Pauline and otherwise. Richard S. Ascough (Ph.D., Toronto School of Theology, 1997) is a Professor at the School of Religion at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He has written extensively on the formation of early Christ groups and Greco-Roman religious culture, with particular attention to various types of associations. He has published widely in the field with more than fifty articles or essays and thirteen books, including Christ Groups & Associations: Foundational Essays(Baylor U. Press, 2022), Associations in the Greco-Roman World: A Sourcebook (Baylor U. Press, 2012), and Paul's Macedonian Associations (Mohr Siebeck, 2003). He has been recognized for his innovative and effective teaching in many ways, including the two top teaching awards at Queen's University and a 3M National Teaching Fellowship (2018). Rob Heaton (Ph.D., University of Denver, 2019) hosts Biblical Studies conversations for New Books in Religion and teaches New Testament, Christian origins, and early Christianity at Anderson University in Indiana. He recently authored The Shepherd of Hermas as Scriptura Non Grata: From Popularity in Early Christianity to Exclusion from the New Testament Canon (Lexington Books, 2023). For more about Rob and his work, or to offer feedback related to this episode, please visit his website at https://www.robheaton.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/middle-eastern-studies

Exegetes have long relied on the framework of the Acts of the Apostles to understand the behavior and organization of Paul's various ekklēsiai (assemblies), or church communities, from which Christ-groups have often been conceptualized as extensions from practices of diasporic Jewish synagogues. However, Richard S. Ascough's work has been at the forefront of a scholarly movement emphasizing the relevance of data from Greco-Roman associations—occupational, cultic, ethnic, and otherwise—not only as a preferable model for understanding the constitution of early Christ-following communities, but also as fruitful comparanda for interpreting Paul's letters, such as 1 Thessalonians and Philippians.  On this episode, Dr. Ascough joined the New Books Network to discuss Early Christ Groups and Greco-Roman Associations: Organizational Models and Social Practices (Cascade Books, 2022), a collection of his articles and essays on associations from the last 25 years detailing the road to the acceptance of association data within scholarship as well as the recruitment, self-promotion, socializing, and memorializing practices that these recoveries from antiquity reveal. Ascough discusses how he carved his own niche within biblical studies, from starting as a master's student with a small group to translate previously unpublished inscriptions and papyri to ultimately showcasing the applicability of association behavior to early Christ-groups, Pauline and otherwise. Richard S. Ascough (Ph.D., Toronto School of Theology, 1997) is a Professor at the School of Religion at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He has written extensively on the formation of early Christ groups and Greco-Roman religious culture, with particular attention to various types of associations. He has published widely in the field with more than fifty articles or essays and thirteen books, including Christ Groups & Associations: Foundational Essays(Baylor U. Press, 2022), Associations in the Greco-Roman World: A Sourcebook (Baylor U. Press, 2012), and Paul's Macedonian Associations (Mohr Siebeck, 2003). He has been recognized for his innovative and effective teaching in many ways, including the two top teaching awards at Queen's University and a 3M National Teaching Fellowship (2018). Rob Heaton (Ph.D., University of Denver, 2019) hosts Biblical Studies conversations for New Books in Religion and teaches New Testament, Christian origins, and early Christianity at Anderson University in Indiana. He recently authored The Shepherd of Hermas as Scriptura Non Grata: From Popularity in Early Christianity to Exclusion from the New Testament Canon (Lexington Books, 2023). For more about Rob and his work, or to offer feedback related to this episode, please visit his website at https://www.robheaton.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Exegetes have long relied on the framework of the Acts of the Apostles to understand the behavior and organization of Paul's various ekklēsiai (assemblies), or church communities, from which Christ-groups have often been conceptualized as extensions from practices of diasporic Jewish synagogues. However, Richard S. Ascough's work has been at the forefront of a scholarly movement emphasizing the relevance of data from Greco-Roman associations—occupational, cultic, ethnic, and otherwise—not only as a preferable model for understanding the constitution of early Christ-following communities, but also as fruitful comparanda for interpreting Paul's letters, such as 1 Thessalonians and Philippians.  On this episode, Dr. Ascough joined the New Books Network to discuss Early Christ Groups and Greco-Roman Associations: Organizational Models and Social Practices (Cascade Books, 2022), a collection of his articles and essays on associations from the last 25 years detailing the road to the acceptance of association data within scholarship as well as the recruitment, self-promotion, socializing, and memorializing practices that these recoveries from antiquity reveal. Ascough discusses how he carved his own niche within biblical studies, from starting as a master's student with a small group to translate previously unpublished inscriptions and papyri to ultimately showcasing the applicability of association behavior to early Christ-groups, Pauline and otherwise. Richard S. Ascough (Ph.D., Toronto School of Theology, 1997) is a Professor at the School of Religion at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He has written extensively on the formation of early Christ groups and Greco-Roman religious culture, with particular attention to various types of associations. He has published widely in the field with more than fifty articles or essays and thirteen books, including Christ Groups & Associations: Foundational Essays(Baylor U. Press, 2022), Associations in the Greco-Roman World: A Sourcebook (Baylor U. Press, 2012), and Paul's Macedonian Associations (Mohr Siebeck, 2003). He has been recognized for his innovative and effective teaching in many ways, including the two top teaching awards at Queen's University and a 3M National Teaching Fellowship (2018). Rob Heaton (Ph.D., University of Denver, 2019) hosts Biblical Studies conversations for New Books in Religion and teaches New Testament, Christian origins, and early Christianity at Anderson University in Indiana. He recently authored The Shepherd of Hermas as Scriptura Non Grata: From Popularity in Early Christianity to Exclusion from the New Testament Canon (Lexington Books, 2023). For more about Rob and his work, or to offer feedback related to this episode, please visit his website at https://www.robheaton.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Exegetes have long relied on the framework of the Acts of the Apostles to understand the behavior and organization of Paul's various ekklēsiai (assemblies), or church communities, from which Christ-groups have often been conceptualized as extensions from practices of diasporic Jewish synagogues. However, Richard S. Ascough's work has been at the forefront of a scholarly movement emphasizing the relevance of data from Greco-Roman associations—occupational, cultic, ethnic, and otherwise—not only as a preferable model for understanding the constitution of early Christ-following communities, but also as fruitful comparanda for interpreting Paul's letters, such as 1 Thessalonians and Philippians.  On this episode, Dr. Ascough joined the New Books Network to discuss Early Christ Groups and Greco-Roman Associations: Organizational Models and Social Practices (Cascade Books, 2022), a collection of his articles and essays on associations from the last 25 years detailing the road to the acceptance of association data within scholarship as well as the recruitment, self-promotion, socializing, and memorializing practices that these recoveries from antiquity reveal. Ascough discusses how he carved his own niche within biblical studies, from starting as a master's student with a small group to translate previously unpublished inscriptions and papyri to ultimately showcasing the applicability of association behavior to early Christ-groups, Pauline and otherwise. Richard S. Ascough (Ph.D., Toronto School of Theology, 1997) is a Professor at the School of Religion at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He has written extensively on the formation of early Christ groups and Greco-Roman religious culture, with particular attention to various types of associations. He has published widely in the field with more than fifty articles or essays and thirteen books, including Christ Groups & Associations: Foundational Essays(Baylor U. Press, 2022), Associations in the Greco-Roman World: A Sourcebook (Baylor U. Press, 2012), and Paul's Macedonian Associations (Mohr Siebeck, 2003). He has been recognized for his innovative and effective teaching in many ways, including the two top teaching awards at Queen's University and a 3M National Teaching Fellowship (2018). Rob Heaton (Ph.D., University of Denver, 2019) hosts Biblical Studies conversations for New Books in Religion and teaches New Testament, Christian origins, and early Christianity at Anderson University in Indiana. He recently authored The Shepherd of Hermas as Scriptura Non Grata: From Popularity in Early Christianity to Exclusion from the New Testament Canon (Lexington Books, 2023). For more about Rob and his work, or to offer feedback related to this episode, please visit his website at https://www.robheaton.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biblical-studies

Emma Ansah reports on WS who hacked and disrupted a Toronto District School Bard online anti racism discussion several times during the session. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/africandiasporanews/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/africandiasporanews/support

Exegetes have long relied on the framework of the Acts of the Apostles to understand the behavior and organization of Paul's various ekklēsiai (assemblies), or church communities, from which Christ-groups have often been conceptualized as extensions from practices of diasporic Jewish synagogues. However, Richard S. Ascough's work has been at the forefront of a scholarly movement emphasizing the relevance of data from Greco-Roman associations—occupational, cultic, ethnic, and otherwise—not only as a preferable model for understanding the constitution of early Christ-following communities, but also as fruitful comparanda for interpreting Paul's letters, such as 1 Thessalonians and Philippians.  On this episode, Dr. Ascough joined the New Books Network to discuss Early Christ Groups and Greco-Roman Associations: Organizational Models and Social Practices (Cascade Books, 2022), a collection of his articles and essays on associations from the last 25 years detailing the road to the acceptance of association data within scholarship as well as the recruitment, self-promotion, socializing, and memorializing practices that these recoveries from antiquity reveal. Ascough discusses how he carved his own niche within biblical studies, from starting as a master's student with a small group to translate previously unpublished inscriptions and papyri to ultimately showcasing the applicability of association behavior to early Christ-groups, Pauline and otherwise. Richard S. Ascough (Ph.D., Toronto School of Theology, 1997) is a Professor at the School of Religion at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He has written extensively on the formation of early Christ groups and Greco-Roman religious culture, with particular attention to various types of associations. He has published widely in the field with more than fifty articles or essays and thirteen books, including Christ Groups & Associations: Foundational Essays(Baylor U. Press, 2022), Associations in the Greco-Roman World: A Sourcebook (Baylor U. Press, 2012), and Paul's Macedonian Associations (Mohr Siebeck, 2003). He has been recognized for his innovative and effective teaching in many ways, including the two top teaching awards at Queen's University and a 3M National Teaching Fellowship (2018). Rob Heaton (Ph.D., University of Denver, 2019) hosts Biblical Studies conversations for New Books in Religion and teaches New Testament, Christian origins, and early Christianity at Anderson University in Indiana. He recently authored The Shepherd of Hermas as Scriptura Non Grata: From Popularity in Early Christianity to Exclusion from the New Testament Canon (Lexington Books, 2023). For more about Rob and his work, or to offer feedback related to this episode, please visit his website at https://www.robheaton.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

Emma Ansah reports on a Toronto school principal who secretly recorded for months under a suspicion misconduct and writing a book during work hours --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/africandiasporanews/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/africandiasporanews/support

Max Harwood and Fr Richard Renee discuss his journey from Anglicanism, to non-belief, to Evangelicalism, to Orthodox Christianity. Have a question about Orthodox Christianity? Submit it here: https://forms.gle/RNvnj8G4ALctqWhb6 Born in Seychelles and growing up in East and Southern Africa, Fr. Richard René is a convert to Orthodoxy and a priest of the Orthodox Church in America. He lives in Chilliwack, British Columbia, with his wife Jaime. He has three children. He has worked as a Chaplain in the federal correctional system and is currently overseeing Chaplaincy services in the Pacific region for Correctional Service Canada. He directs St. Silas Orthodox Prison Ministry Society (orthodoxprisonministry.ca), and is currently working on his doctoral dissertation at Regis-St. Michael's College, Toronto School of Theology. He is the author of three Young Adult fantasy novels, available on Amazon under the pseudonym 'Richard Garcia Morgan.' Max Harwood attends Holy Nativity Orthodox Church in Langley, BC, Canada. He has an Undergrad in Biblical Studies (Columbia Bible College) and a Masters in Theology (Orthodox School of Theology, University of Toronto).

This week, the friends and family of a school principal in Toronto gathered to celebrate his life. Richard Bilkszto, sadly, took his life last month, at the age of 60, and much of the reporting on his death has focused on a DEI training and the lawsuit that he launched about it. A reminder to listeners that the claims you will hear have not been proven in court. Our guest today is a reporter whose story on Richard Bilkszto has gained international attention — and our conversation grapples with a number of difficult issues, including suicide and how it's covered in the media. Rupa Subramanya is a staff writer at The Free Press. Lean Out reached out to Kike Ojo-Thompson to request comment, and to invite her on the program. We have not yet heard back. But Kike Ojo-Thompson did release a statement to the media, which reads, in part: “The death of Richard Bilkszto is a tragedy and all of us at KOJO Institute offer our condolences to his loved ones.” It adds: “The allegations made against me and KOJO Institute within Mr. Bilkszto's lawsuit against the Toronto District School Board are false, and we are not a party to the lawsuit.” You can read KOJO's full statement here. We also reached out to Education Minister Stephen Lecce and his office for comment, but did not hear back. In addition, we contacted the Toronto District School Board for comment. It referred us to its two previous press statements, the first of which reads, in part: “The Board would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of Richard Bilkszto. Richard was a strong advocate for students, particularly for those in adult and alternative education. Throughout his over 24 years in education, he worked hard to create an environment that fostered student success for students of all ages.” The second statement reads, in part: “Toronto District School Board (TDSB) has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic passing of Richard Bilkszto, retaining King International Advisory Group, an experienced and well-respected investigative firm with multi-disciplinary expertise in conducting thorough investigations. Our intention is for this investigation to be conducted in a professional, sensitive and respectful manner.” You can read those statements in full here and here. You can find Tara Henley on Twitter at @TaraRHenley, and on Substack at tarahenley.substack.com

Sara Fairbanks, OP preaches for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time, offering a reflection on God's love conquering all: "Elijah whispers to us across the centuries, what keeps hope alive in the shadow of the cross is God's ever-present, unsurpassed love, making us 'participants in the divine nature' (2 Pet 1:4) and 'friends of God, and prophets' (Ws 7:27)...Rooted in God's love, perhaps we will become like Jesus, whom Catherine of Siena called a 'mad lover' who ran to his cross. 'It was not nails,' she says, 'but love that kept him on the cross.'" Dr. Sara Fairbanks, OP, is an Adrian Dominican Sister. She is currently a professor of homiletics at Aquinas Institute in Saint Louis, Missouri. Before going to Aquinas, she taught systematic theology for twenty years at Barry University in Miami, Florida. Sara holds a Master of Theology from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis and a Doctorate in Theology at the University of St. Michael's College, the Toronto School of Theology in Toronto, Canada. Her areas of expertise are homiletics, theology of lay ecclesial ministry, theology of preaching, practical theology and Christian anthropology. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/08132023 to learn more about Sara, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.

Have you ever experienced an ‘awegasm?' Get ready because by the time this episode is done, you will be able to mega-dose. In today's episode, Anil and Ashish sit down with Dr. Michael Amster, a physician and faculty member at the Toronto School of Medicine with over 20 years of experience as a pain management specialist. Michael is a firm believer in the power of awe and has conducted extensive research in this space. He co-authored the book "The Power of Awe," which delves into the integration of mind, body, and spirit and the profound effects of awe on our health and well-being.Throughout the episode, Michael shares his personal journey and how he shifted his definition of happiness over the years. He highlights the importance of living in a state of wonder and gratitude and how micro-doses of awe in our everyday lives can create profound happiness. Michael also introduces the A.W.E. method, a simple three-step process to access moments of awe in the ordinary, and explains how it can positively impact our physiology and overall well-being.During the conversation, Michael and the hosts discuss the contagious nature of awe and its potential to change communities and the world. They emphasize how practicing awe can foster a greater sense of connection, love, and understanding among individuals, leading to positive changes in the world.Join in and discover how awe can transform your life, and learn how to develop your own awe practice to reap its numerous benefits. Tune in now and enjoy this inspiring episode!What You'll Learn in this Show:The AWE method and how it can be easily incorporated into daily life.The profound impact of awe on our physiology and overall health.The results of research studies showing the positive effects of practicing awe.The ripple effect of awe on individuals and communities, fostering love and connection.Practical advice on cultivating happiness through awe and gratitude.And so much more...Resources:Website: Thepowerofawe.com Instagram: @thepowerofawebookFacebook: The Power of AWETikTok: @thepowerofaweLliveconscious.com Happinesssquad.com @MyHappinessSquad InstagramAshish Kothari LinkedInAnil Ramjiani LinkedInHappiness Squad Youtube ChannelBooks:The Power of Awe: Overcome Burnout &...

Are you ready to start a new career doing something you'll love? The Dermysk Medical Aesthetics Academy (647-247-2481) can teach you everything you need to know to become a certified aesthetician and open your own business, in just a few months. Learn more at https://dermysk.com/pages/academy Dermysk Medical Aesthetics Academy 455 Boulevard Cure-Labelle, Laval, QC H7P2P3, Canada Website https://dermysk.com/ Email prc.pressagency@gmail.com

Paula is an architect, Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, Building Biologist, author, healthy building consultant and educator. Graduating from the University of Toronto School of Architecture in 1978 and from the Institute of Building Biology and Ecology in 1994, Paula founded her own award-winning architectural practice in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 1986-2009 and founded EcoNest Architecture Inc. in Ashland Oregon in 2010. Paula's first-hand experience with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities in the 1980's was the impetus behind her search for healthier ways to build that has resulted in her unique architectural practice with a specialty in construction for health based on the principles of Building Biology. Her firm has designed, specified administered and consulted on the construction of many projects for the sublimely sensitive and has worked in various alternative building envelope systems including, light straw clay, adobe, pumice-crete, rammed earth, Aerated Autoclaved Concrete, and Wood Insulated Concrete Forms. Paula has lectured, taught, and published extensively on the topic of healthy and ecological design. She has been developing and teaching courses for the International Building Biology Institute USA since 2008. Link to the books on Paula's website (enter code EM for 10% discount) https://www.econestarchitecture.com/shopLink to Prescriptions for a Healthy House 4th Edition book and Kindle version on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09YWCS6FK?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860Need help navigating your mold injury without breaking the bank? Join our education group: exposingmold.org/membership We'd like to take a moment to thank our sponsors:HomeCleanse, formerly known as All American Restoration, is a company that specializes in improving indoor air quality through proper mold remediation, offering services nationwide. You can visit them at homecleanse.com to learn more.The Mold Guy performs mold sampling and testing for homeowners, renters, and businesses. Please visit themoldguyinc.com to learn more.Black Diamond Services provides solutions to the unforeseen challenges that can affect homes and families with no out-of-pocket costs. Services include temporary housing relocation and mold test referrals for homeowners. Visit blackdiamondservices.com to learn more.Exposing Mold is a nonprofit! Donate here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTY0OTg0Medical Disclaimer:This podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Support the showFind us on Linktree, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Youtube

Need to get out of a dead-end job and start a new career? Just call the Dermysk Medical Aesthetics Academy (647-247-2481) in Toronto - they can help you to start an exciting and profitable new career using their hybrid online & in-person training. Visit https://dermysk.com/pages/academy Dermysk Medical Aesthetics Academy 455 Boulevard Cure-Labelle, Laval, QC H7P2P3, Canada Website https://dermysk.com/ Email prc.pressagency@gmail.com

In this week's episode, I sit down with Sarah Lang - an executive coach, leadership instructor, and speaking instructor. Sarah is a Senior Consultant at Corporate Speech Consultants and she teaches two courses at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies: Public Speaking and Presentation Skills, and Leadership Presence and Presentation.Throughout our conversation, Sarah shares insights on how to create deep connection and inspiring conversations. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and taking the time and space we need to process our thoughts. Furthermore, Sarah showcases her mastery of communication techniques, particularly the effective use of silence to convey her points. Tune in to this episode to learn from Sarah's expertise, improve your own communication skills, and elevate your presence in professional settings.04:24 - Sarah introduces herself as a leadership coach, and explains how her work relates to public speaking - which she defines as anytime we deliver a message to a group09:23 - She discusses the mindset needed before delivering a message and the importance of structuring a message according to the rule of threes14:45 - We dive into effective communication, covering both verbal and non-verbal cues in in-person meetings20:43 - Sarah shares her thoughts on communicating virtually and highlights the three key pillars of content, sound, and non-verbal cues36:25 - Sarah addresses the potential constraints and pushback clients may have when speaking publicly and sharing their point of view38:34 - I ask her about ways to manage our emotions during conversations, and how to remain present44:30 - We spend more time talking about mindfulness, and how Sarah uses mindfulness to stay grounded in her daily life, with her clients, her students, and her family48:20 - Sarah emphasizes the importance of self-compassion when managing failure or the perception of failureYou can find Sarah on her website, on Corporate Speech Consultantsand on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lang-sarah/ Here is Sarah's virtual presentation self-assessment If you loved this episode, please rate and review on iTunes!If you want support with your visibility head to www.thebeauvoirgroup.com or book a chat with me here I love to hear from you! Let's connect:www.linkedin.com/in/bibigi-haile Instagram @bibigihaileunleashed@speakeasy.work

In this special three part podcast, Ellie Woodacre discusses the English Consorts series with members of the editorial team. This is the third episode, featuring as a conversation with the editors of volumes 2 & 3, Dr Joanna Laynesmith and Dr Aidan Norrie, who is also the lead editor of the entire four-volume series. If you haven't already listened to our first episode on the English Consorts series, where we talked with the whole team, you may want to give it a listen to get the context of the wider four-volume project.  In addition, check out the second episode with the editors of volumes 1 & 4, Dr Danna Messer and Dr Carolyn Harris (respectively). The English Consorts collection, published in Palgrave Macmillan's Queenship and Power  series, reveals the changing nature of English consortship from the Norman Conquest to the present day, through four volumes of innovative and authoritative biographies.Aidan Norrie is Lecturer in History and Programme Leader at the University Campus North Lincolnshire, UK, and the Managing Editor of The London Journal.Carolyn Harris is Instructor in History at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies, Canada, and a regular royal commentator in Canadian media.J.L. Laynesmith is Visiting Research Fellow in Medieval Studies at the University of Reading, UK.Danna R. Messer is Senior Acquisitions Editor at Arc Humanities Press, and the Executive Editor of The Encyclopedia of the Global Middle Ages.Elena Woodacre is Reader in Renaissance History at the University of Winchester, UK, Editor-in-Chief of the Royal Studies Journal, and the founder of the Royal Studies Network.

In this special three part podcast, Ellie Woodacre discusses the English Consorts series with members of the editorial team. This is the second episode, featuring a discussion with the editors of volumes 1 & 4, Dr Danna Messer and Dr Carolyn Harris (respectively). If you haven't already listened to our first episode on the English Consorts series, where we talked with the whole team, you may want to give it a listen to get the context of the wider four-volume project.  Our next episode features a conversation with the editors of volumes 2 & 3, Dr Joanna Laynesmith and Dr Aidan Norrie, who is also the lead editor of the entire four-volume series.The English Consorts collection, published in Palgrave Macmillan's Queenship and Power  series, reveals the changing nature of English consortship from the Norman Conquest to the present day, through four volumes of innovative and authoritative biographies.Aidan Norrie is Lecturer in History and Programme Leader at the University Campus North Lincolnshire, UK, and the Managing Editor of The London Journal.Carolyn Harris is Instructor in History at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies, Canada, and a regular royal commentator in Canadian media.J.L. Laynesmith is Visiting Research Fellow in Medieval Studies at the University of Reading, UK.Danna R. Messer is Senior Acquisitions Editor at Arc Humanities Press, and the Executive Editor of The Encyclopedia of the Global Middle Ages.Elena Woodacre is Reader in Renaissance History at the University of Winchester, UK, Editor-in-Chief of the Royal Studies Journal, and the founder of the Royal Studies Network.

This week we welcome Elaine Smookler onto the show to dive deeper into her article on what it takes to mend a broken heart. Will and Jon share some very personal stories (and get some free psychotherapy!), and we learn all about what it means to be aware of our emotions, understanding them as different from our thoughts, and that there's no "right way" to heal a broken heart. Elaine Smookler RP, CMT-P is a Registered Psychotherapist, Certified Mindfulness Teacher, life-balance coach, keynote speaker, teacher, writer, singer and comedic performer. For more than 20 years, Elaine has been shaking things up in the mindfulness world with her lively and unique programs, including "Mindful Martinis," "Breathe in, Laugh Out," and her long-running online course "A Mindful Way Through the Creative Process" offered through the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies.  Elaine also connects with those facing loss, grief and stress, providing wellness programs for the staff, doctors and parents of the Hospital for Sick Children and has been an instructor at University of Toronto Medical School. She provides ongoing clinical programs, such as Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and stress-management for a wide variety of Employee Assistance Programs (EAP's). Elaine is a long-time faculty member at eMindful and The Centre for Mindfulness Studies in Toronto.  She writes the Inner Wisdom Column at Mindful Magazine which has over 750K monthly users. //TIMESTAMPS (00:00) How to Manage a Broken Heart with Psychotherapist Elaine Smookler (04:30) Jon leads Opening Grounding Practice (~2 min) (08:00) Will's heartbreak (12:00) Jon's heartbreak (15:00) Being tough doesn't stop the heartbreak (19:30) The impetus behind Elaine's article in Mindful Magazine (23:00) Thought vs Emotion (32:00) Not all heartache is from a romantic relationship (35:00) How do we deal with this pain? (39:00) What does awareness mean? (46:00) How do we move forward after we're aware? (53:00) Preparing for grief (57:00) Honoring those who are gone (01:05:00) Elaine leads closing practice (~4 min) //LINKS Connect with Elaine - https://www.elainesmookler.com/ Elaine's Article in Mindful - https://www.mindful.org/how-to-mend-a-broken-heart/ Sign Up for Elaine's Next Course - https://learn.utoronto.ca/programs-courses/courses/3269-mindful-way-through-creative-process  //WHERE YOU CAN FIND US Website - http://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Listen on Spotify - https://bit.ly/MTM-Podcast Listen on Apple Podcast - https://bit.ly/MTM_Apple_Podcast Watch on YouTube - https://youtube.com/@mentalkingmindfulness Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mentalkingmindfulness Follow Will - https://www.instagram.com/willnotfear/ Follow Jon - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmacaskill Join the MTM Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/153173176744665

This show was inspired by singer-songwriter Ron Sexmith's song Maybe This Christmas. Sexsmith tells the story behind the lyrics. Guests Laura Cavanagh, Professor of Behavioural Sciences at Seneca College; and Darren Diaz, Director of the Toronto School of Theology at U of T, reflect on why saying sorry is so hard.

In this special two part podcast, Ellie Woodacre discusses the English Consorts series with members of the editorial team.The English Consorts Series  reveals the changing nature of English consortship from the Norman Conquest to the present day, through four volumes of innovative and authoritative biographies.Aidan Norrie is Lecturer in History and Programme Leader at the University Campus North Lincolnshire, UK, and the Managing Editor of The London Journal.Carolyn Harris is Instructor in History at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies, Canada, and a regular royal commentator in Canadian media.J.L. Laynesmith is Visiting Research Fellow in Medieval Studies at the University of Reading, UK.Danna R. Messer is Senior Acquisitions Editor at Arc Humanities Press, and the Executive Editor of The Encyclopedia of the Global Middle Ages.Elena Woodacre is Reader in Renaissance History at the University of Winchester, UK, Editor-in-Chief of the Royal Studies Journal, and the founder of the Royal Studies Network.https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tudor-Stuart-Consorts-Influence-Queenship/dp/3030951960https://www.amazon.co.uk/Later-Plantagenet-Wars-Roses-Consorts/dp/3030948854/

Last month, Buckingham Palace broke the news that Queen Elizabeth II had passed away at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. The queen was 96, and Canada's longest serving monarch.  Now, Canada has a new head of state: Queen Elizabeth's eldest son, King Charles III.  This week on rabble radio, editor Nick Seebruch interviews royal historian, teacher, and author Carolyn Harris.  While the Pope made a public apology for the Catholic Church's role in residential schools, Indigenous peoples never got an apology from Queen Elizabeth II before her passing. Might the new King Charles III make that apology? And how might a new sovereign leader might affect public opinion of the monarchy in Canada? Harris ponders these questions and more with Seebruch this week.  Dr. Carolyn Harris is an instructor in history at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies. She received her PhD in European history from Queen's University at Kingston in 2012. She is the author of three books, Magna Carta and Its Gifts to Canada (Dundurn: 2015), Queenship and Revolution in Early Modern Europe: Henrietta Maria and Marie Antoinette (Palgrave: 2015) and Raising Royalty: 1000 Years of Royal Parenting (Dundurn: 2017). She is the co-editor of English Consorts: Power, Influence, and Dynasty, a four volume history of English royal consorts published in 2022 by Palgrave Macmillan, and the proofreading editor of The Royal Studies Journal.  If you like the show please consider subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you find your podcasts. And please, rate, review, share rabble radio with your friends — it takes two seconds to support independent media like rabble. Follow us on social media across channels @rabbleca. Or, if you have feedback for the show, get in touch anytime at editor@rabble.ca.

I love interviewing other authors because every time I get to speak to one on Unstoppable Mindset I learn new concepts I hope I can use. I hope you feel the same way.   Our guest on this episode is Natasha Deen. She is an author of over 40 books written for youth, adults and everyone else in between. She made an interesting observation I love and which led to this episode's title. She observed that there are no great writers. There are only great rewriters. Listen to this episode to hear why she thinks this is so. I won't give it away.   About the Guest:   Guyanese-Canadian author, Natasha Deen has published over forty works for kids, teens, and adults, in a variety of genres, and for a variety of readerships. Her works include the JLG Standard Selection Thicker than Water, Guardian which was a Sunburst Award nominee, _and the Alberta Readers Choice nominated _Gatekeeper. Her YA novel, In the Key of Nira Ghani, won the 2020 Amy Mathers Teen Book Award and her upcoming novel, The Signs and Wonders of Tuna Rashad, is a CBC Top 14 Canadian YA books to watch for in spring 2022 and a JLG Gold Standard Selection. When she's not writing, she teaches Introduction to Children's Writing with the University of Toronto SCS and spends an inordinate amount of time trying to convince her pets that she's the boss of the house.   Social media links:   Visit Natasha at www.natashadeen.com and on Twitter/Instagram, @natasha_deen.   About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog.   Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is an Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards.   https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/   accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/ https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/       Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!   Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.   Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.     Transcription Notes Michael Hingson  00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i  capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us.   Michael Hingson  01:20 Well, hi, and I am glad that you're with us again on an unstoppable mindset podcast episode. Today, our guest is Natasha Deen, except that she said to introduce her as she who would follow you home for cupcakes I buy into that. So true. Hey, listen, there's nothing wrong with a good cupcake. Or good muffins. Well, Natasha is an author, she's written over 40 books of various genres, and so on, we're going to talk about that. And she has all sorts of adventures and stories to tell. And so I think we will have a lot of fun on this podcast. So thanks for joining us. And Natasha, thank you for joining us today.   Natasha Deen  02:05 Thank you. And yes, thank you for joining my clan, I'm very excited to be here.   Michael Hingson  02:10 Well, tell me a little bit about you, you sort of the the early Natasha years and so on, and what you did how you got to the point of writing and anything else that you want to say,   Natasha Deen  02:20 Oh, well, I have an interesting, you know, that's gonna say like, I have a kind of an interesting origin story because I was born in Canada. But when I was three weeks old, my family moved back home to Guyana, South America, lived there, and then came back to Canada. So I'm a born Canadian, but my experience with Canada is an immigrant experience. Because the first country I knew was, you know, a country of, of coconuts and vampire bats. And you know, peacocks. And it was it was amazing, we lived No, we were just talking about previous residences. And the house we lived at, there was a stream in front of the house. And then there was a bridge that would connect you like you know, into the town. And I have, I can remember that we would get these huge rainstorms. And it would wash out the bridge. And then you'd either be well basically, as a kid, you were you were stuck, because you have to wait for the men to go find the bridge and bring it back and reattach because it just like a wooden bridge, or they'd have to rebuild it. And it was the same thing at school, like when the rains would hit, the teachers would just show off all the lights, and then we'd make paper boats, and we'd sail them down these like little these little rivers. And when I moved to Canada, the first time it rained, you know, I'm in school, and it starts pouring. And I'm so excited because I think for sure the teachers are going to turn off the lights and we're all gonna go sail paper boats. But it was like a loop was not to be as close the window and told me to pay attention. I'm like, but but but but no, I you know? And to answer your question about any desires to be a writer I did when I was a kid, I thought it would have been very cool to have a book on a shelf. But when I went to the teacher's library and the elders, parents, nobody knew nobody knew how to how to do it. And so I figured it was sort of like, you know, winning a lottery, or perhaps I don't know, some sort of happy, happy meeting, you have to sit down next to some editor on a train. And you mentioned that you really liked writing and they handed the contract right there. So I moved on to other other things. And it was after I graduated with my BA in psychology that I thought I'm just gonna give this writing thing at shot. And luckily for me, and you know, sort of all the writers who are up and coming like, we have the internet so we can, we can talk to the Google and the Google will tell us how how we navigate getting published and Contact, it's an editor's. So first sort of a snapshot.   Michael Hingson  05:04 So did you do anything with psychology? Or did you go straight into writing?   Natasha Deen  05:09 I so like dark secret, I was doing a couple of classes over the summer and preparation I had applied for my masters. And I was sitting there, and it was this really odd textbook that was telling you about, you know, counseling. And one of the techniques they had, they would repeat back to you what, you you know what the patient would say you repeat it back them, because the thinking of the time was, you know, hearing it, hearing it echo back would open up places. And I just, you know, what I remember, we had to do like a whole thing where we were practicing, you know, and it was the most, I realized I did not have the personality for it. Because if I was on the other side of the chair, and I'm saying to someone, I've had a really bad day, and they say back to me. So it sounds like you've had a really bad day. Yeah, yeah, my boss, my boss yelled at me. The boss yelled at you, I would have been like, No, I'm out. I'm gonna go find someone else to talk to you. Cool, actually, you know, talk back to me, instead of giving me a repeat of what I've like, I know what I just said, man. I just said it, you know? So. So that was about that. And I was also you know, so I thought, oh, I'll just, I'll just do a little bit of writing. And then, you know, I'll come back maybe what it is, I'm just tired, because I did school for, you know, 100 billionaires. And there's a danger, there's a danger of taking a break from from school, because then for people like me, we realize now we don't ever want to go back. Thank you very much. Well, we go do something else that someone else can have our desk. Okay, bye.   Michael Hingson  06:47 I remember when I was at UC Irvine, and working in physics and doing a lot with the computers, and there was a mainframe computer on campus. They had a psychology program, and it called Elijah. And it sort of worked like that. It would, if you type something in it would sort of repeat it back. But it was smart enough to deviate. And it could actually get you off in all sorts of unusual twists and turns. It was all about also psychoanalyzing you or, or creating conversations with you to try to figure you out, it was kind of fun. You could you could get absorbed with it for hours.   Natasha Deen  07:29 Well, that's amazing. They have I know that they have a digital version of rat training, mice mouse training. So you would you would train a mouse to like do a maze, but it was a digital mouse, which I appreciate it. I feel like mice have other things to do with their time than to run a maze forming.   Michael Hingson  07:48 Hey, I've read The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. I know about mice. They're they're in. They're in control of the universe. Go read the book.   Natasha Deen  07:56 I wouldn't, you know, I wouldn't doubt that. That sounds that sounds feasible to me.   Michael Hingson  08:00 So something to work on. Well, so how did you end up getting to the point where your first book was published?   Natasha Deen  08:08 Oh, yeah, that's a great, like, I so I, you know, I was I was writing and I was sending out and I think for a lot of writers, you know, we know this feeling, right? You're sending out to editors, you're sending out to agents, and nobody wants you. Right? And sometimes, as soon as you get the really nice rejection letters, like, dear Natasha, thank you so much. I really enjoyed the work, but it just didn't reach me in the way it should. And I'm just not as passionate. You know, I wish you luck. And those ones I didn't mind the ones that that used to irritate me were the ones that would say, Dear author, yeah. Yeah, no, thank you. And it was, like, they didn't capitalize their sentences. And it would just irritate me so much. But I think it was a day and I just spent like, two hours researching you, making sure I spelled your name, making sure I was professional in my letter, the least you could do is capitalized, you know, I, I don't want this, you know, give it to them or whatever. But it was just so I happened upon a small e publisher. And I'd heard really, really good things about them. I'm not sure if they're around anymore. But I've heard really great things about them. And a few friends who had published them said, they're really great because they don't send generic rejection letters. If they don't want your work. They will tell you, and I thought okay, I this is this is perfect for me, because then I can send it out and really someone will tell me if I'm doing something wrong, like what what is it that I'm doing so wrong with with, you know, my books? So I sent it out. And about a month later, I got an email saying, Hey, we really liked this. We'd love to publish it. Can we send you a contract? Yes. Yeah. Yeah, well, you know, I think I think that's kind of the thing with the industry sometimes, like, you know, we get enough kicks in the hand at art, we start wondering if we're in the right industry, we start wondering, do we have any kind of talent? Do we have any kind of skill? Are we just kidding ourselves? And so, you know, when I sent it out, I really, I was still thinking, Okay, I just don't think I'm a great writer, I don't think I have what it takes. And so it was a really good lesson about how subjective the industry can be, you know, and that that frustrating, heartbreaking thing, which is persevering. And you just have to keep going, because what else are you gonna do? You know, if you're built to be a writer, you're built to be a writer.   Michael Hingson  10:42 So you got a contract? And you published your first book? Did they do any editing or work with you on making any improvements before it was actually published?   Natasha Deen  10:53 Oh, yeah, yeah, I had to do a quitter, I think three, three rounds of edits. And then they were really great. I mean, they were, they were teeny tiny, small, small budget. But I really love that they did the very best they could for like, publicity and marketing, for their authors. And they, they would bring, like different opportunities, if you wanted to do it yourself. You could also like, expand out. And I think it's something for authors to think about, you know, that quite often we dream of, you know, the big, I don't know how many publishers, I think it's a big five now maybe even just sort of a big for publishers. But sometimes there's something to be said for for the small and plucky publisher, you know, you may not have necessarily the bragging rights, where everyone knows that publisher, they know who you're talking about. But in terms of that sort of one on one interaction with your editor, the responsiveness of your editor, and just the care they'll take with your work. And I really enjoyed my time with them.   Michael Hingson  12:01 So when was the first book published? Or when did you start working with this first publisher?   Natasha Deen  12:06 Oh, so 2007 It was actually it. So the first thing I'd sent them was a short story. And that was 2007. And then my first novel would then came out in 2009. And then in 2012, and those were all adult romances. And then, in 2012, I went into writing for ya. And I was, that's that was in The Guardian series. And the first book in that series is conveniently titled with enough guardian, which is, which is all about Maggie who sees the dead, and is currently being haunted by the ghost of the kid who bullied her. So that was that was in 2012. Ah,   Michael Hingson  12:49 so the bullies haunting her, and what does she do about that?   Natasha Deen  12:53 Well, that's, that's kind of the whole thing, right? Because it's like, do you? Do you stay quiet? Because he's, you know, he doesn't know she could see him? So does she stay quiet? And just sort of leave him in this limbo? You know, sort of till the end of time as justice for what he's done to her? Or does she actually just say to him, Look, I can see you and here we go. And so the story, the story explores, you know, that side of it, but also it's sort of exploring the idea of, you know, the way that our painful memories can can haunt us. And what do we do? Do we do we face them? Do we acknowledge them? Or do we just sort of push them down and pretend like they don't exist?   Michael Hingson  13:39 So how many books have you written in that series? Which is I guess about Maggie?   Natasha Deen  13:43 Yes. So there's, it's a trilogy. So there's three books in that series?   Michael Hingson  13:47 Okay. Are they all with the same ghosts are different ghosts,   Natasha Deen  13:51 the ghosts, there are one to two supernatural creatures who are there throughout the whole trilogy. But each each book it was it's it's it's kind of an interesting, it's it's fantasy mixed with horror mixed with supernatural mixed with a mystery. So in each book, she's dealing with a ghost who is dead. A ghost story? I guess it goes, who doesn't know that they're dead? And is trying to sort you know, why? What has happened to them? And usually someone has murdered them. And so it's all about trying to figure out who who, who done them in like, well, who did it and then they can move on?   Michael Hingson  14:36 Sounds like a fun series. Have any of the books been converted to audio at all?   Natasha Deen  14:41 Oh, I don't know. Like I know, in the key of near Ghani, I know she's, she's audio. And I think one or two books in the large series is but I'm not sure about the Guardian series. I don't think so. I don't think I don't not yet. I don't think   Michael Hingson  14:58 well If we can find electronic copies, and then we can, can do them in Braille, which is also fine.   Natasha Deen  15:07 Oh, that's wild. That's interesting.   Michael Hingson  15:10 It's not magically overly hard to do. So, you started with this one publisher? I gather you didn't continue with them. Because you said you're not sure if they're around anymore, did you go elsewhere? Or what happened?   Natasha Deen  15:25 I get? Well, they were they were strictly for adults. And I realized with Guardian that it was, it wasn't aimed for adults, it was aimed for teens. And then once I started writing for kids and teens, it just, it's a very different kind of experience writing for for people who are under 18. Because when you think about it, like an adult reader, it's a very sort of, I feel like it's a very direct connection, right? I'm going to write the story. And here you go. And you as an adult reader, you the only thing you're going to think about is, is this the genre that I love to read. And with kids, there's no such like, with with Kid readers, what you're looking at is you're going to write the book, but then there's going to be an adult in that child's life, who buys that book or boards a book for the child. And it's more than just a question of, oh, this is these are the kinds of stories I like, it's questions of how old is this kid because how old that child is determines the kind of story you're going to tell? And how you tell that story? You know, are they? Are they someone who is an add grade reader? Or are they someone who is striving or what we call a reluctant reader? So they're in grade five, reading at a grade three level? And so you don't there's there's all of these things? So things like, how big is the sentence? Like how long is the sentence? What is the vocabulary? Are the words, am I using words that are easy to pronounce, and easy to sound out? And, and it's just a very like, from a writer's perspective, it's a very, very fun exercise. Because how I'm gonna write a story for someone who is seven, is going to be wildly different than how I write a story for someone who is 17. And, you know, I love it. Because, you know, we talked about the idea that simple doesn't always mean easy. And certainly when you're writing for kids, you're, you're really getting down and asking those questions about where are they, in terms of their literacy rates? Where are they in terms of how passionate they are about reading, you know, and I think about that now, in a really different light. And I'm really grateful to all of the kid authors who around when I was growing up, because their care and attention and love of like, kids everywhere, really ignited a passion for for reading that I now because of them. I am not just an adult reader. I'm an out writer. And so yeah, I'm very thankful to them for for all that they did when I was a little kid and making sure that those stories were accessible to me and made me feel lifted up because I could read it myself.   Michael Hingson  18:16 What do you come up with some of the ideas like for The Guardian series, and that's pretty, pretty creative, and a lot of twists and whatnot, twists and turns, but just a lot of parts to it? How do you come up with an idea like writing about a creature who is dead who may not know they're dead, and certainly don't know that someone can see them? Someone who can see them? And going through all the different gyrations of that,   Natasha Deen  18:41 you know, it was really, it actually started off as an adult story. And I was aiming for a mystery like it just a straight, cozy mystery with a librarian who finds who finds a body in the trunk of her car. And it turns out that it is, in fact, her ex husband her near her, you know, what do you call that it and near do well? Well, ex husband. And of course, obviously suspicion starts to her. And I was really struggling with it. And it was just a thought one day that I had about wouldn't it be interesting if it was a girl like a teenager? And instead of an ex husband? What if she found the body of her bully in the back of the car? And then where would we go? And I and then I started thinking though, then wonder where we go and how can I make this more interesting? And then I thought, well, what if she could actually see the dad and at first it's like, you know, are people gonna think I did it. And then of course now it gets super complicated because oh, he's he's there. I have not heard of this terrible person. So sometimes it's just a story where you're thinking about how can I make it more interesting for the reader? And then sometimes it's so Well, I, you know, I was talking to, to a relative, and we were sort of joking around because they had a younger relative in their life, who loved them a lot and worried about them. But the the love and the worry meant that this younger relative could be quite overbearing with this person I was speaking to, you know, and they were like, I'm not that old, I could take care of myself. And I thought, you know, like, it was such an interesting idea for a story about what do you what do you do? What do you do when someone loves you, but they're just, they, you know, they just they're so caught up and knowing in their mind what is right for you, that your your own wants and needs are getting tossed to the side. And that was the start of the signs and wonders of Tish odd because I have tuna, and then there's her brother, Robbie and Robbie is he's loving, and he's a great brother, and he's a great son. But he's just convinced he knows what's good for everyone. And, you know, and adding to that complicate, like, complicating it is the idea is that his his husband has just died. And so He's grieving. And now this is how, you know, one part of his grief is manifesting is that tuna can't breathe. And she just really needs Robbie to like, get a life or at least get out of her life and give her give her some room. And when I was writing it, I knew I wanted her to be an aspiring screenwriter, I thought there would be lots of room for for funny if I could do it like that. And I was struggling with it. And then I went back and I was thinking about the beats of a screen a screenplay. Right? And so how does it like when do you when does the a story break into the B story and, you know, what are the fun and games and, and, and then I got the idea that every chapter heading would mirror a story beat. And that's that's how to knows. That's how to news personality would would show itself. And so So yeah, sometimes it's, it's you're trying to solve a some writer's block, and then you realize that you're the wrong genre, the wrong age group. And other time too. You've got your genre, and you've got your age group. But now you're just trying to sort through, how do you make it? How do you make it funnier, and, and, and I love I really love the chapter headings because it meant that for any kid who relatable anyone who reads the story, who also has to write, not only do you have the story, but now you have a very with the chapter headings now you know exactly where your story needs to go, because they're all your story beats right there for you.   Michael Hingson  22:39 When you're writing a book, and this is something I've always been curious about, especially if in dealing with fiction, some but when you're writing a book, is each chapter somewhat like a story and then you you transition and do things to make them all combined together? Or how do you deal with deciding what's a chapter and what's not a chapter?   Natasha Deen  23:02 Oh, yeah, that's a great question. Um, I think for me, you know, what we think about or what I think about is, what's the story problem. So with tuna, the story problem is that Robbie is just overbearing, and and she needs to, you know, get some space from him. And so that's, you know, that's one plot of the story. And then, you know, from there I go, Okay, well, how do I, how do I make this problem? More complicated, right? Or how do I make this problem? Like, how do I start giving this problem texture? And I thought, well, it would be really funny if two has a crush on a guy trusted, and like, what, what sibling wouldn't interfere? So and I thought, yep, that's perfect. So once I had those, then it's just like, here's my big problem. How do I make them? Little tiny problems? Right? And so what is the what's the saying about? How do you how do you eat an elephant like one one bite at a time? And that's sort of it like, here's my big problem. Now, how do I make it smaller? So, you know, the opening chapter tonight is gonna go and estrus now it's summer, she's got, you know, 60 days to finally tell this guy students, she really cares for him. So she's going to tell him and she just, she gets shy, you know, and then she she trips up over herself over it. And so the problem in that chapter, which is I really want to tell this person I care for them does not get solved. And the her now having to resort, okay, that didn't work. How do I ask him about it now? Like, what's my next step? Now that jumps me to my next chapter that jumps and hopefully that jumps the reader because there's there's a chapter question, okay, what is she going to do now? And we we go on. And so one of the things to think about with bigger stories that are like the, you know, 5060 80,000 word count is, there's probably going to be more than one problem that your character is trying to solve. And you're gonna have like that big external prominent character needs a job, your character needs to rob a bank, and then you're gonna have another story that will probably tie into that bigger one, right? So my character needs to draw a bank, but really, the robbing the bank, because they have a sick child, and if they robbed the bank, they can get the money, and they're gonna be able to, you know, pay for some private operation and save the life of their child, then that's how that's how we twine it together.   Michael Hingson  25:50 So you, you do kind of have different things in in different chapters. But by the same token, things can get away from you, or things can go off in different directions, which is what makes writing fun. And part of the adventure for you.   Natasha Deen  26:08 Yeah, yeah. And you're right, because you know, you're asking about the containment of the chapters, and every chapter is going to have a beginning middle end to it, it's just that in those chapters, there is no like Final the end, there's just an end to that particular scene, or an end to that particular moment, that's going to bump you into the next moment. And the next seat. Well,   Michael Hingson  26:31 so you going back to your story, you decided to write full time I gather, and that's what you do now.   Natasha Deen  26:40 I do, I did I write full time, and I also teach with the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies, I teach their introduction to children's writing, and I visit schools, and I tell kids funny stories about growing up and being the weird kid in class. And, and I also, you know, teach at libraries and, you know, attend festivals and that kind of thing. And, and I still, you know, and I think as writers, we know this, right, that sometimes this job can be such a grind, because you're, you're alone in a room with just your thoughts, and the voices in your head, and you're trying to sort it. And sometimes it can feel like why, why did I choose this job, but he was just refreshing, there's got to be some better way to make money, but the roof over my head, but you know, like, I just, it's so much fun that more More times than not, I'm kind of waking up, as I'm thinking to myself like that, that eight year old nine year old 10 year old me would be so jazzed to know that we grew up to be an actual writer with books on the shelves, and, you know, award stickers on on the covers of our books. Like, how cool is that? You know? So?   Michael Hingson  27:58 Yeah, that's, that's pretty cool. By any standard? Well, tell me, do you, you must have support and help? Do you have someone who represents you? Do you have people that you work with in that regard? Or how does all that work that you now get to publishers? Or you get help doing the other things that you do? Yeah, that's   Natasha Deen  28:19 a great question. And I'm, I'm really lucky because in Canada, our publishers don't, you don't need to have an agent to be published in Canada. And America, it's a little bit different, right? Like you have some publishers where I can contact a publisher directly and saying, Hey, I've got this, this story. And I think, I really think it will fit your catalog. But a lot of the pressures are going to be, hey, my agent has my story. And they think it's, it's, you know, just jazzy. So go ahead and take a look. And then, you know, see your agent is going to work on on your behalf. So early on in my career, I it was just me, right, it was just me all by myself submitting to publishers, and I'm saying I really hope you like my story. And then in 2016, I signed with Amy Tompkins from the transatlantic literary agency. And so now she represents me. So instead of me sending out my work directly to the publishers, I send them to Amy and then Amy sends out on on my behalf. So for those upcoming writers who are listening to our podcast, there's there's many ways there's many ways to get your, your book on the shelf. You can you can absolutely talk to the publishers yourself. You can go through an agent or you know, you can you can self publish, right, you can be an independent author, as well. And there's pros and cons to both sides of that, oh, it's what fits you.   Michael Hingson  29:51 How important is then having someone to represent you're having representation in what you do.   Natasha Deen  29:59 Well and Mike Ace, I would like I love my agent. I think she's, she's the bee's knees. I just think she's amazing. So I really enjoy writing, like, like I enjoy, because like, I love being able to send her work and talk to her about the industry and all these kinds of things. And I do think and I, and again, I think it's going to come down to what is your goal as a writer, what is your you know, do you want to make a career out of it, like a full time career, in which case, an agent is going to be really helpful to that, because they can get you into it and get you into the bigger markets, so they can get you into the bigger publishers, right. If you want to be part time writer, then you know, it all depends. But I will say for for anyone who is looking for an agent, you know, do be aware that your agent is is going to be doing lots of work on your behalf, but they're not, they're not magic genie is you're not going to rub a lamp and all of a sudden, here's all the things that are going to happen. What your agent gives you the opportunity to do is knock on more doors, but there's still no guarantee about being contracted or any of those things. So it's really good to have a realistic idea of, of what you're what the job of an agent is. So it's good to go and make sure you do your research about what they do. They're very, you know, they're they're like, they're vital when it comes to things like reading over your contracts, making sure that your artistic well being is being protected. But having said that, you know, you can also hire an entertainment lawyer who will do the same thing for you. So, again, you know, the frustrating, and yet the very amazing thing about this industry is that it always comes down to you as the individual, what is it that you want? How do you see this journey. And once you know those things, then you can build your plan for creating, sort of creating the career of your dreams.   Michael Hingson  32:09 What are some of the mistakes up and coming or new writers tend to make in your experience,   Natasha Deen  32:17 in my experience, they set or their work far too soon. It's great if you've written your story, but it's not ready yet, as and that can be a hard thing to hear if you've been working on this story for like three or four years, but it's not ready yet, you finish your story. And you start working on something else. Like you've got to give yourself a month, six weeks, two months, where you're not looking at that story that you finished at all, Project eight, don't look at Project day. And then after that, four to eight weeks, go back and take a look at it. Because now what you've done is you've decoupled you're not as close to that story anymore. And you're going to be a lot more objective. So you know, it's important to like, edit, and revise your work. You know, I don't know, I was saying to a class at one of my school visits, there are no great writers, there are just really, really great rewriters and the professional writers, this is what we know that you're going to do it. And then you're going to do it again. And again. And again. And again, until it's finally in a place where it's readable for more than just yourself. So it's really important to edit, it's to have beta readers. And there are people who are going to read your work and offer you feedback on your work, what's working, what's not working. And they're, they're also really important because, you know, when we're working on our projects in in the quiet, we're telling the stories to ourselves. And that's great. But to be an author is to be able to tell a story to a wide variety of people who you will probably never meet in your whole entire life. So you need to get other brains and other you know, viewpoints on on your work. And so, you know, it's all those things. And then once you're ready, you know, do your research, look and buy do your research. I mean, go look up these publishers, and find out if they're reputable, and look at their submission guidelines. Agents are the same thing. Look at the submission guidelines. How do they want you to submit the work? What kind of work are they taking? If you can do that, you're probably about 95% ahead of a lot of the writers out there who will just gonna do you know, they're just gonna throw in that and they're just gonna submit to everybody. And, you know, it can be a really frustrating thing for editors and agents because they're only representing nonfiction. And here's this manuscript they've got to deal with or this email they've got to deal with with someone who's who wants to, you know them to represent their picture book or their, you know, suspense thriller for adults, and it's like, no, you need to, you need to have enough respect for your work and for your emerging career, to take the time and do the research. And it is going to take time, and it is going to be frustrating, because you're looking at their, you know, Twitter feeds, and their social media and the blogs and all these kinds of things. But in the long term, and in the long run, it will, it will only do good.   Michael Hingson  35:33 One of the things that seems to me when you're talking about great writers is either they have a real sense of what it is, that would make someone want to read their book or their story, or they know how to get that information and then will will put it to use, which may not mean that that makes them a great writer, but it certainly makes them a much better marketer. Yeah.   Natasha Deen  36:03 No, it's well, and you know, this is? Yeah, you know, like, the, the great thing is that there's lots of different readers out there. And there's lots of different writers out there. And I think it's really important for us as readers to understand that just because we don't like a book, doesn't mean the book is bad. It can just mean that we're not the reader for that book. And I like, you know, I'm the person, like, if you're gonna give me a book, and there's, there's animal characters in that book, those animal characters better survived through the book, because if not surviving through the book, I am not reading it, you know, and it is like, and I will give you full credit that it's an amazing book, it's probably beautifully written. But no, if there's dog on page one, that dog still needs to be there on page, the end and happy. I want I want my dogs if they've gone through what they've gone through, but it's all okay. So so things like that, you know, and I'm very careful about women in peril kind of books, right? I'm I, some of them, I can read some of them. I can't. And again, it doesn't mean that they're not great writers. And those aren't great stories. It just means that I'm not the reader for them.   Michael Hingson  37:19 Yeah, Old Yeller is is a fine book. Except,   Natasha Deen  37:23 right. Hey, I tell you what, Michael, I mean, I get teased a lot because I'm the person who reads the ending before I read the rest of the book. But I blame that on Where the Red Fern Grows, because that book took out my heart. And I'm still not over it. I was when I read it. I'm still not over that book. And yeah, you know, and, and for me, it's like, Listen, if you're gonna ask me to spend however many hours, I need to know, it's gonna be worth my time, I need to know that these characters are gonna like, there's gonna be some kind of like, hopeful sort of note. The only time they don't do that as if it's a murder mystery. Because I want to I want to play along and see if I can find who the bad guy is before the detective does.   Michael Hingson  38:08 So dealing with animal books, of course, I mean, maybe it's the exception to a degree but then you have a book like Cujo, you know, from Stephen King, and, you know, do you really want I'm gonna I would love to have the dog not to have gotten rabies in the first place. But you know, that's the whole story.   Natasha Deen  38:25 I never I never rented the idea of a bad dog was just like no, no, I can't   Michael Hingson  38:31 start out a bad dog. That was the thing of course.   Natasha Deen  38:34 Oh, I know. I know what it is. No cuz you know there's only one ending for this poor dog. Yeah, right. Yeah. So so there is a dog in in tuna story and I want to sure all three out there that don't worry Everything Everything will be fine with magic.   Michael Hingson  38:57 Well, I appreciate that. I like books where were the animals survive? Of course I wrote thunder dog and Roselle survived in Thunder dog but they all they all do pass and but that's another that's another story.   Natasha Deen  39:12 Yes. That's it. And that's that's different. That's different. That's a   Michael Hingson  39:17 whole different you know? Yeah. And Roselle is somewhere waiting and watching and and monitoring and and occasionally probably yelling at us but you know, that's her.   Natasha Deen  39:29 That is yelling just just can't the ducks the doughnuts, man. Nothing.   Michael Hingson  39:36 What do you mean? Yeah, no, no, no, no, no. Roselle was also out there saying don't give them the donut. I want the donut. What do you do to those dumb ducks?   Natasha Deen  39:49 I feel like she would know that her bread will come later. Right?   Michael Hingson  39:54 Oh, well, maybe now but not then. Oh, yeah. Oh, no, no, thank you. is a lab What can I say?   Natasha Deen  40:02 No, I listened. We've got a husky mix. And I was joking around about how you definitely don't have to share DNA to the family because the look on her face when there's food. And just just the way she'll just look at you like, you're gonna share that right. And the long conversations I have with her room, like, I cannot share this. This is not appropriate. This is gonna make you really sick. You know, but I was thinking my husband one day I was like, as like, you know, I am pretty sure I get that same look on my face whenever I see through to just like, Oh, dang, is that? Oh, is that? Is that bread? Oh, man. Is that cheesecake? Hey, how you doing? Are you? Do you need some help on that? I can I   Michael Hingson  40:41 can totally help me. Make sure that that's really safe for you to eat.   Natasha Deen  40:45 Let me let me just make sure I Is that is that good. Let me let me tell you that bullet. Right. Let me take this for you.   Michael Hingson  40:52 You have you have children?   Natasha Deen  40:54 Yes. Yes, they're full grown boat. So they have kids of their own now.   Michael Hingson  40:58 So okay, so you have grandchildren? And and do we? Do we have any of them in your beta reader groups?   Natasha Deen  41:06 No, no. Because they Well, because they're they're still little adults, adult's? Oh, you know, I actually they'll read it afterwards. Because their schedules are pretty, their schedules are pretty intense. So   Michael Hingson  41:24 part of the evaluation process? Well, I   Natasha Deen  41:27 just feel bad, you know, looking them being Hey, hey, I know you're juggling, like 10 Different things now. But can I throw one more ball at you. And then also, like, I appreciate, like I use I use writer BETA readers, as opposed to just the quote unquote, regular folk, just because I usually by the time I'm done, I've got very specific questions about story structure, how the acts are transitioning? Can you can you see the a story B story? Where can you see the external? And so there needs to be a certain level of, I guess, like literary mechanical engineering? Do you know what I mean? Where I think to that? I think I think I think my family would be like, I love you. But stop asking me about the grammar. There's only so many times you can be like, okay, within what about, you know, when I when we're doing this metaphor, and it's, you know, like, just let me read it. Okay, so read it. So   Michael Hingson  42:29 how about today? Reading, I don't know, I'm trying to figure out what's happening to reading we've, we've changed a lot. Reading is now not just getting something on paper, we have electronic books, and so on. And I hear a lot of people say, Yeah, I read the books, it's not quite the same as reading a book. That's a full paper book, but I enjoy reading them as well. And of course, then there are a lot of people who just don't get into reading at all. But reading is so valuable, because it seems to me that one of the great advantages of reading is it gets you to sit and relax and take time away from everything else that probably we really don't need to be doing anyway. But we do it. But the reading gives you the opportunity to just sit down and let your mind wander. And it develops a lot of imagination. How do we get more people to do that?   Natasha Deen  43:30 That's a great question. And I'm not sure that I have a feasible? I'm not sure I have the answer. You know, but I think one of the things you said in the beginning was I think very well said that there is more than one way to access stories now. And I think that's really important. Right? If you are if you are someone who loves paper books, that's wonderful. But you know, for some of us, we're going to come to story differently. We want the story told to us, you know, or we want the story in some kind of a different, you know, when you're thinking about sometimes, like, finger dexterity and coordinate, you know, a screen is much easier to navigate. Than, then sometimes a book can be, and depending on the device you're using, it's going to be lighter. So if you have issues holding books, paper books, I mean, you know, this, these are like, these are the kindnesses that I think technology affords us, and that, you know, and if you're if you're busy, you can pop in that audiobook when you're sitting in the middle of rush hour and you can get to story that way. But I think a lot of it is is getting to folks when they're young and understanding that, again, not everybody comes to story the same way. And the thing that I think is magical about being a writer is that I can write I can write this Signs of wonders of tuna or Shawn, and I can give 30 people a copy of that book. And everyone will have the same book, not everyone is going to read the same story. Because at the moment time we start reading, we're going to bring our hopes, our dreams, our past experiences, our, you know, future or future hopes for us. Like we bring all of these things in how you know, do we have great relationships with our parents? Do we not, you know, how do we view the world? All of these things, like infuse the stories that we read, and they changed right there, they become another creature. So someone reads the book, and they say, Oh, yes, I read this. And this book is a cat. And someone say, no, no, no, it's not a cat. It was a chameleon. And someone else will say, No, it's a phoenix. And each of those people are correct, because that is how they interpret the story. And that's how they interpreted the book. And so you know, when we're talking about getting people, folks to love reading, it's getting them I think, a lot of times getting them young, understanding what are their what are the things that they love to read? What are the things that they love about the world? Let's, let's start there, and give them those kinds of stories. Like, you know, the idea that oh, I love this book, therefore, you must love this book is a really unkind to do to people. Because it says because I think of this like this, you must also think of this, like this, and and people are individuals, right? My mom's favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird. I think I think it's a well written book. I can't stand the book. It sets my hair on fire every single time. You know, I have friends who really love the Great Gatsby, I'm not that person. Right? It doesn't mean that those people are wrong. I love the fact that my mom loves To Kill a Mockingbird, you know, and I love that my mom understands that's never going to be my favorite book. And she respects that. And so when, you know, when we were growing up, it was like, go to the library, even if she was like, Oh, that's okay. You know, she would give us space, if that's what you love. That's what you love. And I think we need to stop. Also, what's the word I'm thinking of? You know, I hear people a lot of times, especially with young readers, where they say things like, oh, but it's a graphic novel. There's not a lot of text in there. And, you know, how are they are they going to become readers? And it's like, be okay, granted, but when you look at a graphic novel, there's, there's images and who's looking at this book and reading through it has to be able to make intuitive leaps about you know, what's happening in this box versus what's happening in this box. And, you know, so it's still teaching, it's teaching life skills is teaching like human skills. And I think if we can leave, we can go from the point of taking the spotlight and putting like taking the spotlight and putting it on to the person who we want to get reading and having an open conversation where we respect where they're coming from. I think that can be really helpful.   Michael Hingson  48:11 Yeah, book like To Kill a Mockingbird is is an interesting book, I'm, I'd be curious to know what it is that the you've read, really find a problem with the book, but I can see that different people would certainly read that and deal with it in different ways. Oh, for me,   Natasha Deen  48:29 it was it was just this as you know, I'm a person of color in my everyday life, I've got to deal with micro aggressions and, and so in my, in my relaxed life, in in my fictional world, I don't want to have to I want space from that. I just want to be able to read something fun and something, you know, enjoyable. I don't want to have to read about the things that I'm trying to deal with in the real world, but at the same time, people really love it.   Michael Hingson  49:00 One of my favorite books is one that I'm sure today is not a favorite book for a lot of people. It's a Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's court by Mark Twain. And I love the plot. I love all the things that happened in it. It's just one of those books that has really stuck with me, and that I absolutely thoroughly enjoy. I guess also, I do have to say that I originally read it as a recording. It was a talking book produced by the Library of Congress. And the guy who read it was perfect. But it has always been one of my favorite books. I think it's just an incredibly creative book. And I admire that.   Natasha Deen  49:43 Yes, yeah. Well, I you know, it's easy because I really liked calm Sawyer and Hawk you know, I thought I mean different books. But yeah, they were fun characters, and I thought Twain had a very excellent storytelling style. I guess that's it. You're right. Yeah.   Michael Hingson  50:01 Well and, and different kinds of stories. I'm an okay Yankee Yankee in King Arthur's Court is hard. I like Tom Sawyer.   Natasha Deen  50:08 Well, did you did you know that he when he died, and like fact check me on this because I remember reading this years ago, but that his diary, he made sure as well that the diary could never be published for something like 100 years, because of the he was talking smack about so many people. He was like, they cannot be alive. But like,   Michael Hingson  50:33 yeah, I remember that. And it wasn't. So, of course, he knew we knew what he was going to die. He was born in 1835. And he said, I came in with Halley's comet, and I'll go out with it. And he did.   Natasha Deen  50:45 That's amazing. Hey,   Michael Hingson  50:48 it's just one of those things. Well, you know, before we wrap all this up, what's next for you? Where are you headed? What? What kind of projects do you have coming up?   Natasha Deen  50:58 Well, so yes, the tuna releases on June 7. I'm very, very excited about that. And then I'm just finalizing the book in the spooky SLIS series. And that's for early. That's for ages like 79 That's with Penguin Random House. And I'm very excited about that. That's, that's awesome. And Rockstar who live on in Lions Gate, and spooky creepy things happen. And awesome is convinced that there are supernatural creatures roaming the town. And rock star is convinced that because there is a science lab, it's probably just science running wild. And so the books, the book one opens up with a tree. That seems to be housing, a very evil spirit. But what will happen next?   Michael Hingson  51:48 Oh, you have to read the book to find out.   Natasha Deen  51:51 That's right.   Michael Hingson  51:54 Have you ever read books by David Baldacci?   Natasha Deen  51:56 Yes. Yeah, I just started reading him. Memory Man, I just I just started.   Michael Hingson  52:01 So and that's a that's a good one. But he also wrote, I think it's more for youth if I recall, but he wrote a series of four books. It's the Vega chain series. And if you ever get a chance to read those, it's a totally different Baldacci, then all of his mysteries, their fantasies, and it's a fantasy world, sort of, I don't want to give it away. But they're, they're well worth reading. I accidentally discovered them. I was looking to see if there was anything new by Baldacci out on Audible. And I found one of these and I read it on a on a plane flight and got hooked and so then could hardly wait for the next one to come out. So it's Vega, Jain V, GA and then chain.   Natasha Deen  52:48 Okay, yeah, thank you.   Michael Hingson  52:51 I think they fit into a lot of the things that you have been writing about. So they're, they're they're definitely worth reading. But there's nothing like reading conversations are great with people. But you get to meet so many more people in a book. And as I said, it seems to me that the most important thing about reading is sitting down and reading to let your imagination go. And you're right. The way you imagine is different than the way that I imagined. And we're all different. And that's the way it should be.   Natasha Deen  53:23 Yeah, absolutely. Absolutely. Thank you, Michael. This was a lot of fun.   Michael Hingson  53:28 This was fun. I very much enjoyed it. And we need to do it again in the future. Yes, sir. So no tuna books are out yet. No, not yet. Next. So tunas tuna is new. It's coming out next Tuesday.   Natasha Deen  53:45 The signs and wonders of tuna are shot.   53:47 Wow. So that'll be fun. Well, we'll have to kind of watch for   53:51 it. Okay, sounds good.   53:55 If people want to learn more about you, and maybe reach out to you and talk to you about writing or any of those things, how can they do that?   54:04 Oh, on my website, www dot Natashadeen.com. And Natasha Deen is spelt D E E N. And Natasha is N A T A S H A.   54:18 So N A T A S H A D E E N.com. And they can contact they can contact you there and so on. And I assume you have links so that they can go buy books.   Natasha Deen  54:32 Yes, yes. Yes. It wouldn't be a website without it.   Michael Hingson  54:35 No, not an author's website. It would not be Well, this has been great. I really appreciate you coming on we will have to stay in touch. And we'll have to catch up to see how all the book sales go and how the the awards go once the new series are out. Thank you.   Natasha Deen  54:54 Yeah, sounds well make it a date, sir. They'll be perfect.   54:58 Absolutely. Well, Natasha, thanks for being here. And I want to thank all of you for listening and being with us today. This has been absolutely enjoyable. I hope you found it. So reach out to Natasha at her website, Natasha deen.com. And of course, I want to hear from you. So if you would like to reach out, please email me at Michaelhi at accessibe.com M I C H A E L H I at A C C E S S I B E.com. Or go to our podcast page, Michael hingson.com. hingson is h i n g s o n.com/podcast. And of course, we sure would appreciate it if you'd give us a five star rating after listening and, and come back and subscribe and listen to more unstoppable mindsets. We have all sorts of adventures coming up. And we would love you to be part of it. So if you'd like to be a guest, let us know if you know of someone who you think would make a good guest. Let us know that too. So again, thanks for being here. And Natasha, thank you once more for coming on unstoppable mindset.   Natasha Deen  56:03 Thank you, Michael. And thank you to all the listeners. I loved it. Thank you for spending time with us.   Michael Hingson  56:12 You have been listening to the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. Thanks for dropping by. I hope that you'll join us again next week, and in future weeks for upcoming episodes. To subscribe to our podcast and to learn about upcoming episodes, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com slash podcast. Michael Hingson is spelled m i c h a e l h i n g s o n. While you're on the site., please use the form there to recommend people who we ought to interview in upcoming editions of the show. And also, we ask you and urge you to invite your friends to join us in the future. If you know of any one or any organization needing a speaker for an event, please email me at speaker at Michael hingson.com. I appreciate it very much. To learn more about the concept of blinded by fear, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com forward slash blinded by fear and while you're there, feel free to pick up a copy of my free eBook entitled blinded by fear. The unstoppable mindset podcast is provided by access cast an initiative of accessiBe and is sponsored by accessiBe. Please visit www.accessibe.com. accessiBe is spelled a c c e s s i b e. There you can learn all about how you can make your website inclusive for all persons with disabilities and how you can help make the internet fully inclusive by 2025. Thanks again for listening. Please come back and visit us again next week.

Welcome to the Cross Border Interviews With Ian McCormack What attributes make a good leader? Ian McCormack has had conversations with hundreds of mayors and thousands of councillors and other local leaders over the years. While each community and its leaders are unique, some common themes emerged among those appreciated as the most effective. Investigating these themes and drilling down into the key factors that enabled them to exist revealed several key attributes held in common by these strong leaders. In The DNA of Great Leaders, McCormack provides 25 key attributes of great leaders around three major thematic areas: personal characteristics, community leadership, and governing. Each chapter dissects a key attribute, contains examples and quotes from mayors who embody these attributes, and end with questions for reflection. “There is arguably a growing leadership deficit at all levels of public life, and yet in my experience local democracy remains the most reliable structure for selecting and then growing authentic leadership. And so Ian McCormack's book is timely as community leaders turned off by party politics and polarization turn to their county and town hall to try to make life better close to home. I agree with McCormack's recurring premise that ‘The politics of local government doesn't have to be zero sum,' and his book describes many of the attributes and skills necessary for mayors to steer councils, municipal organizations and communities on the non-zero-sum path. More communities led in this thoughtful way would add up to stronger communities, a stronger country, and a timely antidote to the politics of division we see around us.” Don Iveson, Edmonton Mayor 2013-2021, current Canadian Urban Leader at the University of Toronto School of Cities. *************************************************** Purchase " The DNA of Great Leaders": https://www.municipalworld.com/product/mccormack-the-dna-of-great-leaders/ *************************************************** Follow the Cross Border Interview Podcast: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/CrossBorderPod Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI2i25ZVKTO84oUsLyO4jig Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Back the Show: https://www.patreon.com/CrossBoderInterviewPodcast The Cross Border Interview Podcast was Produced and Edited by Miranda, Brown & Associates Inc © 2022

Aadila Munshi is a contemporary artist living and working in Toronto, Canada. She is known for her paintings of distressed urban surfaces. In her work, grit and decay are uniquely juxtaposed with elegant marks and her signature calligraffiti forms. Her paintings are meaningful, emotive, and ultimately inspired by the human condition. A former Criminologist at the University of Cape Town, Aadila grew up in South Africa during the apartheid regime and paints from a deep sense of repressed voice. Composed intuitively, her abstract expressions emerge as visual representations of her perception of the push and pull between struggle, hope and the ability to rise above. She studied painting with a professional artist and has been painting for over 25 years. In 2000, she moved to Toronto permanently, where she studied at the Toronto School of Art and established her painting practice. Her work has been sold in North America, Australia, U.K. and South Africa. Learn more about the artist. Learn more about the podcast.

 Huffington Post, E! Entertainment, The ViewIt's National Mental Health Awareness MonthThe Segment is for Educational Purposes, Always Consult Your Physician About this Information so it Can be Determined If it is Right for You.Nationally acclaimed innovator and expert in the fields of integrative medicine, psychiatry, and addiction recovery, Dr. Cass helps individuals to take charge of their health. One area is in withdrawing from both psychiatric medication and substances of abuse with the aid of natural supplements. Dr. Cass appears often as a guest on national radio and television, including The Dr. Oz Show, E! Entertainment, and The View, and in national print media. She has been quoted in many national magazines, blogs for the Huffington Post, and is the author of several best-selling books including: Natural Highs, 8 Weeks to Vibrant Health, Supplement your Prescription: What Your Doctor Doesn't Know About Nutrition, and her ebook, The Addicted Brain and How to Break Free. She has created her own line of innovative nutritional supplements. A member of the Medical Advisory Board of the Health Sciences Institute and Taste for Life Magazine, she is also Associate Editor of Total Health Magazine, she has served on the boards of California Citizens for Health and the American College for Advancement in Medicine (ACAM). A native of Toronto, she graduated from the University of Toronto School of Medicine, interned at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center, and completed a psychiatric residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center/UCLA. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine (ABIHM).© 2022 Building Abundant Success!!2022 All Rights ReservedJoin Me on ~ iHeart Radio @ https://tinyurl.com/iHeartBASSpot Me on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yxuy23baAmazon ~ https://tinyurl.com/AmzBAS

Julie Himel received a Diploma of Fine Art from Langara College, Vancouver, BC; a BFA Honours Degree from York University, Toronto, ON, and a Graduate Diploma from the Toronto School of Art, Toronto, ON. Her work has been exhibited across North America, including recently being featured in digital exhibitions with Visionary Projects, New York, NY;  and the TD Thor Wealth Management Juried Exhibition: Quest for the Environment, Quest Art, Midland, ON. Himel's paintings are part of private collections across the world and public collections including The University of Calgary, Calgary, AB; Westfield State University, Westfield, MA; the Armenian Centre Art Collection Canada, Toronto, ON and several corporate collections. Julie lives and works in Toronto.   Julie Himel's vivid paintings push the genre of landscape into dreamlike abstractions. Her newest works present an experiential portrait of human interaction with the natural world during this environmentally complex time. Man made structures, anthropogenic traces, and unnatural light sources become part of the view, through dream and memory-scapes that question time and connection to nature. A nod to the beautiful that inevitably unfolds as the environment adapts to human intervention.   LINKS:  www.juliehimel.com   Artist Shoutouts: Ben Reeves Emma Webster Madeline Peckenpaugh Arden Bendler Browning   I Like Your Work Links: https://www.nyccritclub.com/ https://go.sunlighttax.com/ilyw   Exhibitions Studio Visit Artists I Like Your Work Podcast Instagram Submit Work Observations on Applying to Juried Shows Studio Planner

Portia White built an international reputation as a singer. After her concert days, she taught at Branksome Hall School in Toronto. This week, that school put up a plaque honouring Portia White's life and contribution. We hear from Portia White's niece, Sheila.

Do you ever read Old Testament passages about women and wonder if God is truly for women? Are all the Bible commentaries you find written by men? Hosts Erin and Blake sit down with Dr. Lissa Wray Beal and discuss her articles and commentaries and how they are redeeming the stories of and bringing the women of the Old Testament to their important place in the biblical narrative. In this episode, we touch on: the topic of lament in the women of Jeremiah; what we get wrong about Ruth and Naomi; and the fascinating story of the five daughters of Zelophehad. If you've ever avoided the Old Testament because of how it seems to portray women, then this episode is for you!    Bio  Rev. Dr. Lissa M. Wray Beal is a Professor of Old Testament at Providence Theological Seminary, where she has taught since 2004. She is also a priest in the Diocese of Rupert's Land in the Anglican Church of Canada, serving as an honorary assistant in a local parish. Dr. Wray Beal completed a BTh at Northwest Bible College and an MDiv at Taylor Seminary (both in Edmonton) before completing her PhD at the Toronto School of Theology at Wycliffe College.  Dr. Wray Beal's work focuses on Joshua - Kings, Jeremiah and the Psalter, exploring their literary, historical and theological dimensions. She teaches the Old Testament as a witness to God's character, and as preparatory for Christ.  Look for these upcoming projects:  Jeremiah. Baker Commentary on the Old Testament: Prophets. Under Contract.  The Book of Ruth in The Bible in God's World Commentary. Cascade Publishing. Under Contract.  1-2 Samuel. Baker Commentary on the Old Testament: Historical Books. Under Contract  Other Reading   "'Call for the Mourning Women': Women's Songs of Lament in Jeremiah" for Evangelicals and Women Section of the Evangelical Theological Society Annual Meeting, November 2021.  The Story of God Bible Commentary: Joshua  The Bible in God's Word (Series)  Center for the Study of Bible and Violence 

Rev. Dr. Michelle Voss Roberts is professor of theology and past principal at Emmanuel College, a multireligious theological school in the Toronto School of Theology and University of Toronto. She is a comparative theologian who works in Christian and Hindu traditions, as well as an ordained minister in relation to the United Church of Canada and the United Church of Christ. Her teaching and research invite others to imagine themselves in relation to diverse religious worlds, in which particularities of embodiment—such as gender, gender identity, and sexuality, racialization, dis/ability, and culture—matter. Dr. Voss Roberts' book-length works in comparative theology include Dualities: A Theology of Difference (Westminster John Knox, 2010), which centers medieval women theologians; and Tastes of the Divine: Hindu and Christian Theologies of Emotion (Fordham University Press, 2014), an exploration of rasa theory and theological aesthetics, which received the Award for Excellence from the American Academy of Religion. More recently, Body Parts: A Theological Anthropology (Fortress Press, 2017) reimagines the Christian teaching that human beings are created in the image of God through the prism of the tattvas in nondual Saiva thought. Voss Roberts is also the editor of a volume that brings interreligious comparison to the introductory study of theology, Comparative Theology: Insights for Systematic Theological Reflection (Fordham University Press, 2016), as well as the Routledge Handbook of Hindu-Christian Relations, which was published last year. In this episode, we discuss: Finding liberation within tradition. What it's like to be a Christian Theologian. Defining theology - faith seeking understanding. How we seek to understand this orientation towards the world. The concept of the image of God from Christian theology. Using the work of Abhinavagupta and his Śaiva teachings on the 36 tattvas to illuminate and expound upon the notion of the image of God in a more inclusive and expansive way. Broadening the scope of theology and our understanding of the divine. Why does comparative theology matter for our contemporary world? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catherine McDonald, GLOBAL NEWS talks about student killed in Toronto school.

On today's episode, ~ing Producer Ben Wideman sits down with Hyung Jin Kim Sun, also known as Pastor Pablo, a Korean-Paraguayan Mennonite and Ph.D. candidate in theological ethics at Emmanuel College in the Toronto School of Theology. Pastor Pablo will be talking with us about themes from his book, Who Are Our Enemies and How Do We Love Them?, part of The Jesus Way series through Herald Press. We are grateful for the continued support of Everence, a faith-based financial services organization who believe it's possible to incorporate your faith and values with your decisions about money. To take a closer look at the difference it makes when your financial services company is rooted in something more than making a profit visit Everence.com. Securities offered through ProEquities Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. ~ing Podcast is a production of MennoMedia, a nonprofit Publisher that creates thoughtful, Anabaptist resources to enrich faith in a complex world. To find out more, visit us online at MennoMedia.org --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/ing-pod/message

Joni Sancken is an assistant professor of homiletics at United Theological Seminary, and author of Words That Heal: Preaching Hope to Wounded Souls. In this episode, Sushama Austin-Connor talks with Joni about her expertise in preaching and her personal experience of trauma, sharing ways for the Church to become a place that welcomes expressions of trauma and offers love, care, and healing to survivors. Joni Sancken is an ordained pastor with Mennonite Church USA and has served as a pastor in Mennonite congregations in Indiana and Pennsylvania. Her credentials are currently held by Virginia Conference. She received her PhD from Toronto School of Theology (2009), MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary (2004), and BA from Goshen College (1998). Prior to joining the faculty at United, she served as Assistant Professor of Preaching and Practical Theology at Eastern Mennonite Seminary in Harrisonburg, VA, where she also served as the director of their Preaching Institute. Joni also served as a sessional faculty member at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary and Candler School of Theology as a postdoctoral fellow at Emory University.                                                                         Dayle Rounds (00:00):What does it look like to preach in a way that is mindful of those who have experienced trauma? In this episode, you will hear from Joni Sancken an assistant professor of homiletics at United Theological Seminary. She talks with Sushama Austin-Connor about how the church can become a place that welcomes the expression of trauma and where people can experience love, care, and healing. (Waterdrop sound)You're listening to The Distillery at Princeton Theological Seminary.Sushama Austin-Connor (00:30): All right, so I wanted to start first of all, with what seems like a very interesting series itself, the artistry of preaching series. Can you just give us some context for the series and what it's about? Joni Sancken:It is extremely eclectic. I mean, I think my sense of understanding. So when I proposed the book, I had no idea it was going to be part of this series. They came back to me and said, Oh, we would like it to be part of this series. And I've heard other authors had a similar experience where they had just sort of proposed it as a book. And then they're like, Oh, we can put it in this series. So I think essentially what it is is it's elements kind of around the sermon that may be operating in the preaching, but it's not like kind of the nuts and bolts when you think about sermon design.So it's a, it's the other things that help to really, make sermons live and breathe and grow. So there've been, there've been ones on having to do with, poetry. There've been ones that have to do with images. There've been ones that have to do with the sermon. It's kind of an educational function. Mine definitely tips over more toward kind of that pastoral care zone a bit, how you use your language, how you shape your language. Like some of those are some of the topics in the series. One of the things that was kind of a gift with the series is that my, my doctoral supervisor, Paul Scott Wilson, was the editor of the series. And so it was kind of an amazing experience. It had been just a little over 10 years since I had finished my Ph.D. and to have him editing my work again, like it was just, it was a gift, like to be able to work with him in a different space in my life and kind of like a more, I don't know, mature scholar space and to have him as a, such a trusted conversation partner as part of that, was just a super gift.And I know not everybody is going to have that experience. So I, I loved that. It really, it made it special to be a part of the series. Sushama Austin-Connor: That's really nice. So in saying that, what were some things that you in 10 years' time span have learned about yourself as a preacher? Joni Sancken :I mean, I think just as a teacher and a preacher, you move from space to space. I think, the students that I work with, the pastors that I work with have changed me. Life changes. You, you mellow out some, like you just kind of get more confident in your own skin as a scholar. I think for me, my early work was on the cross and resurrection, like that's what my dissertation on that was my first book was on. And you can see it still is really an important part of this book.Joni Sancken (03:05):Like those same theological impulses are there. Like I have continuity in who I am, but I think engaging with, survivors of trauma and trauma itself, that has it's changed me in a profound way. And I, I wouldn't, I would love for the traumatic events that happened to our family to not have happened. I mean that I would never want that, but I also welcome the strange gift of perspective that it has given me. I feel like I am much more comfortable with human experience and with human responses to life experience. I don't feel like I have to be, the Orthodoxy police. I don't feel like I have to defend God in quite some of the same ways that I think I felt like I had to do as a younger scholar. And I think I feel much more free in terms of what, what can be done in the sermon. I don't feel like I have to like argue for saving the sermon or argue for like carving out what my particular angle is on it. And that I can sort of just be in that space a bit more, if that makes sense.Sushama Austin-Connor (04:14):It makes total sense. And you mentioned family trauma and you start the book off talking about, family trauma and your sister-in-law, would you share some more about the specific story and what led you to even involve your family and the story in the book? Joni Sancken (04:32):Yes, Absolutely. I had, I had already been thinking about preaching and trauma before our family had a traumatic event happen. My students, I, we have a lot of these intensive preaching classes at United where I teach. And for a while it felt like something horrible happened like days before the students would show up. So there was the Orlando nightclub shooting and that happened. And then the next day the students showed up and they were just reeling from this experience or the Mother Bethel, AME shooting like that happened. And then like the next, just days later, they were in Ohio, like at the seminary and the sermons that they'd been working on these weeks before coming no longer felt like they were the sermons that they wanted to preach. So they were having to search for words at the last minute, they were struggling with how to speak into traumatic experience and with processing their own trauma.Joni Sancken (05:26):So I had already had that as something that I was working on, I was shopping around a book proposal, and then my own sister-in-law died suddenly of a brain aneurysm. She didn't have any other health issues. She was a young mom in her thirties, very, very young children. And, I felt our family experienced some of the things that I had been reading about with trauma. Just the sense of disconnection sense of isolation, that a sense of some people pulling away from you almost if whatever terrible thing happened to you, that it might be catching somehow, which was a really painful experience. And so we got to see what it was like firsthand. How does the church relate to someone when something unspeakable has happened in your life? And I think for me, I felt very strongly that the spirit, like I didn't, when something traumatic happens to you, like you want to be able to do something like you, you feel so powerless and regaining agency is such a part of that.Joni Sancken (06:27):And I just remember such a profound sense of the Spirit saying well, this is something you can do. And immediately after that, I got a book contract and they were really generous with how they, gave me space and time to work on it. I got a sabbatical from my school to work on it and just a lot of support to pursue the process. And so for me, working on the book was, has definitely been part of my processing of the experience. I don't see it as much in the pages, but I remember there were times when I would be writing and I would just be like crying as I was writing, but it doesn't, it doesn't really come through in the book. Like when I read it now, I'm not like, Oh yeah, like, it's not like tears are dripping out of this page.Joni Sancken (07:07):But it was definitely part of my own experience with it and getting my family's permission to, to say, can I share our story here? And I feel like it really connects with, especially my mother and father-in-law with how they have, journeyed toward healing. I feel like they had, especially my father-in-law had a very difficult time in terms of squaring his faith and his relationship with God with what happened, because it just felt so cruel, for Twila to just be ripped away from our lives and from her family. And that was, there was such a need for her to still be alive, but she wasn't. And so I think for his own journey, too have moved to a place where I felt like they now are able to kind of give back, they reach out to other families that experienced trauma. Like they're part of broader networks that, that work on that.Joni Sancken (07:57):And I feel like their faith is strong in a way that, allows them to, has allowed them to move forward into other things that are very difficult. I mean, a couple of years ago, my father-in-law was diagnosed with cancer. It's like a slow-growing cancer. And I was so concerned. I thought, Oh, is this going to completely unmoor their faith? When I feel like they've just kind of gotten re-rooted, but it's not like God has seen them through everything as what their posture is now. If God saw us through this, like God can see us through this. And they have such a wonderful faith community. My in-laws are Mennonite and they were Amish like one generation back. Like my father-in-law grew up Amish and that community is so thick. I don't feel like there's like a good, a good corollary for it. And the outside world, like it's such a thick community. And so we're so grateful that they have had that community around them, both my brother-in-law and, and my, all my in-laws really have had that community. Sushama Austin-Connor (08:59):Yeah, and you are a Mennonite-Joni Sancken (09:01):I am an ordained Mennonite pastor in Mennonite, church USA. I'm kind of a, a Mennonite a little bit in exile these days. My husband is a PCUSA pastor and I'm teaching at a United Methodist seminary. And so I work with, with all the ecumenical folk but yes, I'm still proud Mennonite.(Waterdrop sound)Sushama Austin-Connor (09:20):I'm going to get a little bit into the book now, too. So I'm actually, you know, I was thinking as I was reading and thinking about some of your book, I also a couple of months ago reading, in my grandmother's hands by Resmaa Menakem, have you read it to some of the, I saw some parallels or things that made me think about your book in similar ways about kind of racial healing and racial trauma and, so, and even some of the ways in which your book is extremely practical, it's very theological, but then there's also practical ways in ways to practice this. I found it that matched some of the, the, some of his work. And so I, I was really interested in your language around soul wounds and what that, what that is.Joni Sancken (10:10):Yeah. I had not read his book when I wrote mine, but I have read it now. I've used it in my classes and I love his book actually. Sushama Austin-Connor (10:16):I do too. Yeah, I do too. Joni Sancken (10:19):And it's a bigger part of my, my next project is incorporating more of that. But yeah, when I read his book, I saw he also used some of that soul injury type language. With dovetails. I mean, for me, that language arose from conversations with editors actually early on in the process. I think there was a sense that it would be less freighted for some readers than using the word trauma. And it also might free me up a little bit, to not have that kind of technical term, even though trauma is very much a part of the, of the book. It would allow people who wouldn't identify as being traumatized, but would recognize themselves as having this kind of lingering pain that they're from experiences that have happened in their lives. So I think it, it broadens it. And I, I think I have found that it does resonate more with some pastors when I work with them, that they're able to kind of acknowledge a soul wound where they would never say I, I had a traumatic injury, like they will use that kind of technical language.Joni Sancken (11:21):One of the things that I do like about it is it gets at that kind of hidden nature of those lingering permeating wounds, that can last after, a experience of trauma in your life so that hiddenness like, people don't see it. It's not a wound that's on your arm, it's buried inside you. One of the challenges I have feel with the language, although this hasn't really been a problem with the book, but one of my colleagues had pointed out that I go to a lot of effort to show that trauma is like, it's so comprehensive, right? It's your relationships, it's your spirituality, it's physical, it's mental, it's emotional and soul - I think sometimes people hear soul and they think only spirit, or they think only like your inner self and that it's not also affecting kind of your social being. But, I think at its best, it does communicate that, that permeability.Sushama Austin-Connor (12:13):Yeah. And, and for me, it also opens up because I do think of soul is like sort of inner and spiritual but also kind of opens it up for like all of your traumas. Like all of them, all of them are involved in like that. It's kind of like soul care to all of it is involved in, in that kind of care. Have you found that pastors, you said that they, it might be easier to talk about soul wounds rather than trauma, but what, what other ways have pastors resonated with that language? I mean, and are they preaching and saying soul wounds are, are what's the language? How is the language being used?Joni Sancken (12:51):They're not, they're not saying soul wounds necessarily in their, in their sermons. I've had the, the gift. Now a couple of times of being able to work with pastors around this material and then having them generate sermons that are trauma aware and have grown out of their engagement with the material. And I don't think any of them necessarily use that term soul wound, but, they do talk about the, the pain that people experience in their lives in frank and honest ways. And I think that's a real mark of, of trauma aware preaching to be able to do that, to name the situation and also to be, to be timely when you need to be, I mean, we have come through sadly now a couple of weeks again, where we've had mass shootings. And I mean, this is a situation where often like pastors are ready to go with a sermon.Joni Sancken (13:41):And especially these days where some churches are recording their sermons days ahead, to have to decide, okay, now that that no longer fits, I need to redo what I was planning to do in light of the event that just unfolded, the, the shootings that we've had more recently have happened earlier in the week. But, I, in recent memory, I can think of some that happened not so early, in Dayton, Ohio, we had a mass shooting a couple of summers ago and that happened on a Saturday night. And I think people woke up Sunday morning and it was on their phone that this had happened in their own city. And so to try to decide, what to do in that, in that moment, I sadly have a pastor friend. I know some pastors have like a set funeral sermon that they kind of have available, that they can adapt if, a congregant passes away. He has a mass shooting sermon. This pastor does, and he just updates it. So that it's ready to go. And I'm like, that's wise, but it's so sad that you have that.Sushama Austin-Connor (14:42):It's so sad, yeah. It's so sad. I mean, and at this point we were having them, it was almost daily for about a week and a half. If they were like five to 10 or more people, but nearly daily. So there's a lot, there's a lot happeningJoni Sancken (14:55):And from working with pastors, I realized too that it's awfully freighted. How you talk about these things. We had like a continuing ed event, right after that shooting that happened in, in Dayton. And some of the pastors talked about how, like they wanted to talk about what had happened because it is scary. And it is like it happened in an area where a lot of people go. It was like a very kind of a downtown, an area that had been built up and restored, tons of restaurants, shopping area where people go that the city was kind of proud of. And that's where the shooting had happened. And, but they were afraid to talk about it or they got pushback from their congregation because the issue of gun control is also a political issue and that inflames people. So you can't talk about gun violence as a traumatic injury without also turning off some of your listeners instantly because of the politics involved. So it's really hard. I mean, preachers have to be multitasking in their mind is they think about how to address this, like how to address the wound that that's happened in such a way that people can hear and receive it as care and not like anger or inflame half of your congregation instantly. It's really, it's challenging times.Sushama Austin-Connor (16:09):It is very challenging. One word that always, kind of sticks with me both because I try to figure out what it's actually about. So trigger. So when I think of trauma and then I think of like the, the naming trigger and then I can't really like, well, how come we're not actually naming things for what they are, or if people are triggered and we're not talking about it, then we're having trauma and not naming it. So I wonder, yeah. What do you think? Joni Sancken (16:40):That's been one of the most controversial elements as I've dealt with it later, in this book, I, I'm mostly a guest preacher these days. And so for me actually using a trigger warning has been helpful, because I am somewhat trauma aware. Obviously I'm not a trauma expert. I've had a little training and done a lot of reading. For me, if there was anything in the sermon that I think could potentially harm someone. And when I use the word trigger, I'm thinking of it more in its clinical sense. That's for someone who is a survivor of trauma, that it could initiate kind of a, a physical chain reaction where they are again, experiencing physical sensations that are connected to that traumatic event. And that it may kind of set them back on their own, healing journey, inadvertently in that church safe space where they shouldn't, it's hard enough for them to be there because triggers are all around. If there's anything I can do to, to alert them and to give them agency like, then I'd say what it is like this sermon mentions racial violence or whatever the trigger is, then they can decide, do I want to stay or do I want to go?Joni Sancken (17:47):And it gives them that power. So for me, like, it's been a useful tool. Now. I have had some conversation with fellow friends in the academy of homiletics that when preaching about certain things. It should be beneficial. It, you shouldn't just use a trigger warning to give people an out if they feel uncomfortable. One of the things that Resmaa Menaem talks about is the clean pain and the dirty pain. And I think that's something that is really beneficial to think of here, but, but you still have to get people to buy in. Right. For example, I, a couple years ago, I heard a sermon where the preacher spoke extremely graphically about racialized violence. She was describing lynching in extremely visceral ways and it was physically nauseating to hear it, but I'm, I'm a white person and like she should not have to modify her pain, in order to make me feel comfortable.Joni Sancken (18:43):And, and I should feel uncomfortable, right? Like as part of that, that working through now, there may be some who would hear that sermon who had experienced some kind of physical violence where the language that was used could have triggered a traumatic response in them, but it's so hard to know kind of where all your listeners are on that journey. So the trigger warning has been, yeah, it's something that comes up almost every time. I, I talk about this, but my students have experimented with it. And for the most part, it has, has worked, has worked well for them. I mean, you never know who's going to be in your, in your church on, on a Sunday morning. And if you say what the trigger is about, it's about racialized violence, then your listener has a chance. Am I going to buy in, am I going to stick through this?Joni Sancken (19:28):Maybe I need to experience this clean pain, but if it's going to be something that really sets them back on a healing journey, then they can choose to step out. If you work ahead, you can even let people know, well, in advance, if you're going to be talking about something that might be triggering for people. So, I mean, if you know that there's something that might trigger someone who has a history of sexual assault, you can let them know ahead of time, or you can reach out to them personally, if they've shared that experience with you as their pastor, you can say, this may come up on Sunday, or this is in the text on Sunday. I just wanted to let you know, so that you can take care of yourself and make a decision around, what would be most beneficial for you? Because I don't think God doesn't want us to harm our listeners as we're seeking to proclaim the gospel.(Waterdrop sound)Sushama Austin-Connor (20:17):And I, I wanted to talk about words that heal. So some more about words that heal. How do you think pastors can do that kind of work while we're online? How can we do that? Well, like how can we have these experiences well, online?Joni Sancken (20:35):I feel like in some ways in this kind of online worship world, that the sermon has become even more important than it was before, because before we had our singing, the hymns, the congregational singing, the praise music, whatever we had in worship, we had sacraments that we were doing together in person. We had like the bodies next to us on the pews. We had like the environment that we were in that worship space. Maybe there were visuals, maybe there was other art forms that were part of that. Now what we have is this kind of two-dimensional experience. The sermon is probably the least changed element in preaching. It still is like a one-person offering a teaching on scripture, a sharing of the gospel, toward listeners, but the idea of the listener as much larger, number of pastors I've talked to are kind of, they realized that now anyone could be listening to their sermon.Joni Sancken (21:30):And so they're being a little bit more careful and intentional that they're not just preaching to this little group of folk that they would be used to seeing in front of them, that they could be preaching to anyone. Another thing that I have heard some pastors be concerned about is that people are not always staying for the whole time. Like they can track it on their, on their metrics later that people can tune out. Like if they didn't like the sermon that they were like checked out, like gave it a few minutes and then left, that's something that would be awkward to do if people were there and in the worship service. So I think that it puts a little more pressure on the preacher, but it also is a, is a greater opportunity. And I think, in terms of the, the tools that you can use, I would really encourage pastors.Joni Sancken (22:16):And I have, I did this with a group of pastors at the beginning of the pandemic to employ even more, opportunities for communication so that there are other ways besides just the sermon. So I've known some pastors have added a mid-week reflection, whether that's something that they record or whether it's something that is written that then that is, kind of additional to the sermon. And that listeners kind of collapsed the two and maybe on Sunday, you're attending to a biblical text and it's kind of more of a traditional sermon, but then your mid-week reflection may be just kind of a frank discussion of like what's happening in your community right now. Or wanting to really connect to a specific issue that you're facing. And it allows you to be a little bit more vulnerable. And for some they've made that midweek, just members of the church, like that's not something that is posted just only goes either on a private channel or it goes via email, something like that.Joni Sancken (23:12):So that's a little bit more protected and more directed because you know, what the needs are in your own community. So I think encouraging more communication rather than less, and really encouraging preachers to just to talk about what's going on in our world to take it as an opportunity, rather than, than something that is threatening or scary as an opportunity to speak God's presence into those events. I mean, the, our theology it's part of our Christian identity is all wrapped in our theological language and who Christ is and who God is for us. This is how we make sense of our world processing is so important to trauma, like trying to make sense of it. I mean, a number of, researchers put that as a step, like a necessary step that you have to like, make sense of what happened.Joni Sancken (24:05):And for Christians, we have like rich language that can help us make sense. I mean, the fact that we have we've just come through good Friday and Easter, we have a God Sushama Austin-Connor:that's right. That's right. Joni Sancken :Who has a traumatic death that, that happens in the life of God? Like Jesus dies a traumatic death. And that is part of, of who God is going forward. And we know this because the resurrected Christ still had those wounds. Like that's not the completeness of who Jesus is, but nor is it erased. Like it's still there. It's part of the life of God. And that allows us to see like ongoing experiences of suffering are, are part of, of Christ's crucifixion allows us to see that, kind of wrapped up in, in who our God is. So I think, I mean, I think it's vital that, that preachers continue, continue to use that, that kind of language. Sushama Austin-Connor (24:57):Absolutely. And I think what you were saying earlier about, how now in this space, the sermon, I mean, I know at the churches, at the church I go to and then I've been able to visit a lot of churches now that we're online. It's I feel like, at least at a couple of churches and my church, the sermon is it's always central, but it really is central. Now. It's like where there's less music. You know, when it's communion Sunday, you have the community element when you have maybe one hymn, but really it's the sermon. So we actually do a hymn, we pray then do a, hymn then you go right into the sermon. So whereas it may have been a half-hour or so before the sermon now it's like within 15 minutes, the sermon has started.Joni Sancken (25:41):Yeah. Yeah. It's the main event. I know churches have had to be creative churches that are used to having, kind of more of a dialogical experience of the sermon. Have had to be creative about that either with chat going on along the side, or with having one of my students created like a talk-back hour after worship were people could come back and they could offer their comments, their questions, their feedback, like their support, whatever they wanted to offer after the sermon was done. Sushama Austin-Connor:That's great.(Waterdrop sound)Sushama Austin-Connor (26:13):Early in the text, you, you make a distinction between healing and curing. I want to hear more about that and how you think it should influence trauma-informed preaching.Joni Sancken (26:23):So this was, a distinction between healing and curing that was lifted up to me by one of my colleagues at the seminary where I teach. And, he had talked about how curing is this kind of miraculous, mysterious, instantaneous, resolution of whatever the, the trouble is. And that we do experience this in our world, but that most of the time, this is something that's eschatological. We don't experience it this side of the realm of God, but that people take that idea of curing and they apply it when they hear the word healing and that he said, instead that our healing, we need to have a bigger sense of imagination for what healing is that healing is really rooted in the gifts of salvation and sanctification. And that these are offered to, to everyone. Like it's not something that only some people get and that it's so mysterious.Joni Sancken (27:14):Like this is something that God generously pours out upon us. And when we experience it, any taste of it, it's really a fruit of the resurrection that we get to taste now and healing can be social. It can be personal, it can be bodily, it can be relational, it can be structural, it can be ecological, like all these facets to how healing can unfold. And so when we're preaching, we need to not be afraid to name healing, and to look for healing and to lift up these kinds of evidence of healing in our world, because we're afraid of that, of that sense of curing. I mean, I think, I've experienced in a lot of churches that I've been a part of a reticence on the part of pastors to even ask for healing sometimes because they're afraid that,  we'll be disappointed and they want to kind of protect God's reputation is what it feels like.Joni Sancken (28:05):Like they don't want people to somehow think that God isn't out there, that God didn't receive the prayer because we didn't experience the cure that was asked for. But we can always ask for healing. And I think part of what that asking does, and we can even ask that God would make us more aware of, of healing. God, bring healing to the situation and make us aware of the healing that you are bringing, to this situation and to our world. Because I, I really do think that one of the ways that sin and brokenness function in our world is to blind us to the ways that God is active and part of our work as preachers. And I think especially important as trauma-informed preachers is to be looking for those places where God is bringing healing and hope and is active in our world because hope it's not so much of a feeling as it is an action and a muscle that we can grow.Joni Sancken (29:01):Like it's a practice that you have to do in order to experience the benefits from it. So hope is something that you can practice. You can build your hope muscle, and if your congregation is lacking in hope, you can build their hope muscles by, providing them, evidence of where we see God in our world and examples and stories and lifting those things up for them to see it. And then they begin to also see evidence of healing in their own lives. It really is life-changing as a preacher for you to have that kind of posture toward the world, knowing that you want to lift it up in your sermon and it's, it's contagious. I think it spreads. It's a good virus that can spread your congregation.Sushama Austin-Connor (29:42):That's right. That's right. I like the flexing the hope muscle. Yeah. I liked that image cause I like that it. It's something  I don't know if I've thought of practicing hope. Yep. Practicing the ability to be hopeful. I really liked that.Joni Sancken (29:56):For example, if you think about healing like structural healing. So we have a lot of spaces in our world that are not accessible to people who have various forms of disability. One of the gifts of the pandemic actually has been that church is suddenly super accessible to some of those folks who might not have been able to get into the building and in a good way. I mean, something that brings healing is to adapt our buildings so that everyone can come into them, like putting an elevator in a building that didn't have one is healing, building a ramp up to a platform. So that a person who is in a wheelchair can help lead worship like that is healing. Like that's a form of structural healing. I mean, that's something that we might not always think of as, a fruit of the resurrection, but, but you can name it as such.Sushama Austin-Connor (30:49):Yeah. And as you're speaking about healing and then also curing, I'm thinking of like wherein the moment of trying to heal and to, to talk about healing where we make room for grief. And I've been thinking about like grief this year, like kind of communal grief, the grief of this year, the grief for church leaders in, you know, not being able to touch and, you know, pass the peace with congregants for congregations, not to be able to, it feels like there's some communal grief happening as well.Joni Sancken (31:22):It has to happen. Yeah. The book that I'm working on now actually is looking at communal trauma, and processing that. And one of the practices that I'm looking at in that book is the practice of lament. And I think it's, it's an extremely rich practice. It has aspects of grief, but it also has aspects of protest that are, that are enabled against it. And it's a very kind of vulnerable and living dynamic in terms of relating to a God who, who can receive this experience of lament, but every single person has experienced loss this year. Not all of our losses have been equal, which has been one of the pains of this year as well. Like some have experienced so much more loss than others, but, everyone has lost something. I mean, even like the littlest kids in your, in your church, like they didn't have preschool like their preschool was canceled or they weren't able to have their birthday party or they couldn't hug their grandparents.Joni Sancken (32:17):I mean, this is huge. Just last week, my children were able to hug my parents for the first time in more than a year. And like, I know that's huge. And it was like, it was emotional for my parents and for my kids, like it was kind of a big deal. So I mean, that's, that is a loss. And like, I mean, it continues to be a loss, like you think in my mind, wow. Like, can we make up for this year? Like humans don't live that like human life is finite a lot. Like my son just turned five a year is a lot for him. Right? So, I mean, that's huge. And everyone has to have that. I mean, I think at the 2020 graduates who didn't have like their typical graduation, they didn't have like their proms. They didn't have like, whatever else they were supposed to have.Joni Sancken (33:02):Like sports teams were canceled. Those poor kids that graduated in 2020, then they started college. A lot of them in a weird, weird environments. Like, it's horrible. How can they, you can't get that back. And we have to have a way of, of, of somehow naming that and acknowledging it. And for congregations, I mean, many have lost members, not necessarily even from COVID, but members have passed away and we haven't been able to be together or to have a funeral or to acknowledge it. Like there needs to be definitely opportunities for communal lament and it can happen in a variety of ways. It can happen visually. It can happen through song. It can happen through spoken word. Pastors can be encouraging this now. I mean, sermons can be part of it too. Like you can name that experience. I mean, even just naming, like we have all lost something.Joni Sancken (33:53):if you're feeling sad, it's really normal. Like if you're feeling like disoriented, it's really normal, like to normalize those kinds of experiences that your members are having. Because a lot of times, I think especially American culture really tries to gloss over that. Like everyone's supposed to put on their big boy or big girl pants and get on with it, right? Like you're not supposed to wallow or to sit back or to acknowledge your vulnerability or that something has been hard for you. But I think that that stuffing down, it, it catches up with you eventually cause unprocessed trauma, it doesn't go away. It just lingers. And it comes out in different ways. Some of the material, if you've read Menakem, like, I mean, he talks about how this generational passing on what we don't deal with today. Our grandchildren may be dealing with in terms of kind of mass trauma, like cultural trauma, like large experience of, of societal trauma that we've had.Joni Sancken (34:53):So we really, I think we owe it to the future to try to process these things now. And I think church ideally should be a place where we can do that, where we can be honest and vulnerable and experience love and care and healing. Sushama Austin-Connor:That's right. Yeah. And with the racialized trauma too, what was really amazing to me is how the idea about the science and the DNA aspect of it that you don't even have to talk about it it's in you, was quite extraordinary. Yeah. I mean, trauma in you just in who you are in your bones and your DNA Joni Sancken:and the physical aspects of needing to express. I mean, one of the things since this book has come out, one of the areas when I'm working with groups that I try to push on beyond what I wrote is just the need.Joni Sancken (35:46):Like it's important to focus on the sermon, but trauma really is something that lives in your body and you have to find ways to work at this physically. And so even if you're the sermon is really important to you and that's kind of the center of your, your Protestant worship, especially to provide ways for your listeners to move their bodies, whether that's having a stress ball there in the, in the Pew that they can squeeze or like inviting them to move their bodies, like as part of worship, to get out that kind of, the tension that's part of holding that, that stress-related trauma response in their, in their bodies and in their systems, and working with, with communities of color as well. One of the challenges that I have is the sense of John Henry-ism, where, some folks are, working so hard all the time to succeed in a system that's completely stacked against them and that the toll that, that takes on their body over time and they're successful, but like their body just has no way of processing the racialized trauma that they experience constantly.Joni Sancken (36:56):Like we have to find ways to work at that and to do better with it and to acknowledge it and to name it. And this is something I think of specifically working with clergy because so many of our clergy are the successful folk who are like leading at such a high level and are doing like everything in their, in their lives and in their communities and in their families. And like, and it's so much, and you think, okay, like how much can your body take? Like, how do you take care of your, of your body here? I mean, one of the best ways that preachers can be trauma aware is to be aware of their own, woundedness and their own need, in the face of trauma. I mean, pastors have had the same stressors as everyone else this year, but they don't have some, they don't all have someone who's like caring for them or looking out for them.Sushama Austin-Connor (37:47):Yeah. I mean, I feel like pastors, we had a few check-ins throughout the year. And I feel like pastors are holding onto to even more from what, just from exactly what you just mentioned. Like yes, you have to pastor to people who are suffering in this time, but then you are suffering and having nowhere to lay your burdens down. Yeah. So to speak, right.Joni Sancken (38:14):Pastors are parents with their kids doing their homework and trying to film their worship service out of their living rooms. Right. While their spouse is working.Sushama Austin-Connor (38:24):Right. I want to make sure, cause I wanted to talk a lot about the, some of the practical aspects of the trauma-informed preaching. Can you just talk to us about what kinds of questions a trauma-informed preacher would ask? What are signs that your pastor is trauma-informed?  What, how do they, how would you approach the text as a trauma informed pastor? Yeah.Joni Sancken (38:49):This is something that I look at quite a bit in the book and I think, part of, part of coming to the scripture with awareness of trauma is also awareness of where there is already trauma in that text.  it's a, there's a book by David Carr called Holy Resilience, which is just amazing. And it looks at the traumatic origins of, Christian scripture. And he holds that,  that there was a lot of ancient,  sacred texts and that a lot of those texts were very kind of triumphant in their tone and that those texts have not survived. And he would say that well, in addition, obviously to kind of the sustaining activity of the spirit that we experienced through scripture, the living nature of our scripture, there's also a sense in which the fact that it deals with,  traumatic experience. So,  openly has, has been part of how it has survived.Joni Sancken (39:43):Like there's a sense of resilience and who God's people are that you can trace through the text.  I think part of what a trauma-informed preacher brings is his awareness of how trauma may have and how it may have influenced the writing of, of the scripture itself. I mean, it was just, it was a revelation to me to learn, like, to be reminded that most of our Old Testament was written down during the exile that these experiences in texts that existed before that experiences that they had that existed orally were written down when they were at fear of, of losing themselves completely, that they were living in a, in a context where they felt under threat and much had been taken away. And so that experience, it colors some of how we see God interacting with Israel in the Old Testament. Well, and to learn that part of the processing and making sense that survivors often experience is that sense of, of blaming,  that that's a big part of it.Joni Sancken (40:41):Like who, who did this, like as a stage in the processing of trauma that often there's a need to assign blame, whether that was a doctor's fault or it was my own fault. Like, and it's often as a stage, but we see that in scripture, like we see Israel blaming itself, we see Israel blaming God for things happening.  for me, it was especially helpful to look at some of the crucifixion narratives in the New Testament where,  Jewish writers of scripture, blame Jewish people for the death of Jesus. When we know that Rome killed Jesus, Jesus died on a Roman cross. The Jews did not kill Jesus, but they assign blame to themselves. And that perhaps that's a trauma response, a self-blame response to the trauma that they experienced and Jesus's violent death. So I mean to know all of that, to work into name that potentially in a sermon to say like, this is a trauma response, it allows people to say, okay, it happened there.Joni Sancken (41:40):I see it in my own world. Another thing I think that is really helpful in terms of looking at scripture is to look at those places that, that rub the raw places in our own world. Like where are these sense of connectedness,  and woundedness that the text highlights or, bumps against that might create pain in our listeners? Like how do we work with that? How do we name that? How do we not,  cause harm. I work quite a bit in the second chapter with,  Genesis 22 and the near-sacrifice of Isaac. And this is, this is such a rich text. It's a text that has been used throughout Christian history to help us understand something of our atonement theology, but it's a text that a lot of pastors are afraid of because there's so much going on in it because we have a parent who without questioning is prepared to kill his child for God.Joni Sancken (42:36):It's really disturbing. It's so disturbing to acknowledge that, to name it, to look at kind of the richness of what can be done with a text like that.  I think is extremely powerful. I'll never forget it. A number of years ago before I was even working on this trauma material. I had a student who had trauma in her background and she preached this text like Isaac, as a survivor in this text, she preached Abraham as not a good person. Like she cited evidence of all the places where he had failed God, had lied had harmed people. Wow. All along, I mean, she preached against the Christian tradition here basically, and then name lifted Isaac up as a survivor and it was a powerful, powerful sermon.  so I mean, it's possible to do something like that when the texts like this, I think with, with trauma awareness.Sushama Austin-Connor (43:30):Yeah. And to kind of see it put a new lens on it, to see it in a, in a, in a very new way. Joni Sancken (43:36):I think, another thing,  that that can be done, especially preaching from a Christian perspective. Is that putting the cross and resurrection in conversation with what we're preaching?  I mean, arguably, I think that can be done every Sunday from the vantage point of every text because this event is so pivotal and it does,  kind of encapsulate that sense of, of God experiencing,  the worst of what it is to, to suffer as a, as a human being.  because that's part of that and because the resurrection brings life to that situation allows that experience to not define who Jesus is ultimately.  but doesn't erase that situation, that the complexity of that placing it in conversation with another text,  can also bring that level of awareness and also allows our theology to do some of that heavy lifting for you as a preacher.Sushama Austin-Connor (44:30):Yeah. And I'm thinking, and I'm looking at our time, which is crazy. I have two more questions, one's quick and one, well, both can be quick, but so the one is, I just, I know so much of the, of chapter three, especially, but the book talks about sexual abuse. I didn't want to not at least talk about it in, in terms of the reality of preaching about that kind of hurt where the church hurt people. So I wondered if you could just talk about that and then I'm going to end by asking you about kind of your hopes, your hopes for this type of trauma-informed preaching.Joni Sancken (45:05):That chapter, where I looked at,  sexual abuse. Like I knew that I wanted to write about how the church has sometimes been a contributor to trauma has sometimes been a perpetrator has often actually been a perpetrator of trauma and in so many such an array of experiences, I mean, think of colonial experiences. We think of how the church has treated women, LGBTQ + folk. Like, I mean, there've been a lot of experiences of trauma at the hands of the church. I couldn't the book part of working in being part of the series was that it was like within a really specific word limit. The issue of sexual abuse was just crying out to me at that time. And so I use that as a lens, hopefully a way that congregations and pastors can work at other issues, other experiences where the church has harmed listeners.Joni Sancken (45:53): I think one of the things that came to me most with working on that chapter is just the need to, to be honest about what the Church has done and to not think that the something and that can be handled internally, that it needs to, there's a legal component of it. And that the leaders that betrayal that happens again, it doesn't go away just because that leader has been removed from power. That's something that has to be worked through with the congregation, like issues of trust,  issues of brokenness. I think almost every congregation that my husband and I have been a part of has some kind of a breach of trust that has happened with a pastor sometime in their history around sexual abuse. Like every single congregation that we've been a part of has this somewhere in their past. And I think to, to not name it, to not deal with it really invalidates the experience of people who have experienced that in the church.Joni Sancken (46:54):So the church apologizing, I think is, is really key and not apologizing in a way that somehow lets the church off the hook for it like a real apology that acknowledges that pain was done. I mean, I think that's really important. And then obviously, I mean, you can, the perpetrators are also forgiven, but to realize that this side of the realm of God, that it's very hard to stand with both a perpetrator and a survivor. And so I think,  one of the theological tools I used earlier in the book was this concept of Han that comes from my colleague Andrew Park. It's a, it's a Korean word and it means the sinned against. So this is, when we talk about sin, a lot of times we talk about active sin that someone is doing, but Han is sin that has done to you. Like you were a victim, like you had no say in the sin, you were the receiver of sin. And I think,  especially liberation theology, traditions would say that God stands on the side of the one who has had that experience. Of course, obviously, God offers love and forgiveness to all sinners, but to the one who was on, who had Han like that's, God stands gives us specially devoted love to, to those who have had han perpetrated against them. And so I think for congregations to be aware of that and to protect survivors in their midst,  is really important so that it can continue to be a safe space for them.(Waterdrop sound)Sushama Austin-Connor (48:26):What is your hope for this book? What is your hope for what it offers pastors, your hope for people who, clergy,  who are going to try to do trauma-informed preaching?Joni Sancken (48:36):I really don't want pastors to be afraid to go there. Really central to the core of what this book was about is acknowledging. I mean, when I was in seminary and I do this with my students, if you encounter someone that has serious trauma and lingering effects, obviously they need to be under the care of a mental health professional. Like that is an absolute, like trauma is serious business and you don't want to harm someone by not having them under that care. But just because that's the case, they may have been referred to someone. They may be seeing a therapist and may be under the care of a physician, but they're still part of the body of Christ. Like there's still a member, like there's still a brother or sister and like, we need to be preaching to everyone and we need to be,  empowering listeners so that we can interact with each other and ways that are helpful and healing and that are combating isolation and brokenness.Joni Sancken (49:31):And I think stigma that's so often attached to people who are survivors. So I think,  looking at that person as a brother and sister first, not allowing that experience to completely define who they are. So I think what my hope is is that by reading this book, that pastors feel a little less afraid if they encounter someone who has that kind of experience because survivors are everywhere. I mean, hopefully that they're equipped, they're empowered. They have a few tools, they have some sense of, of direction, of how to not be afraid and how to preach into this as an opportunity to speak the gospel in this situation,  rather than ignoring it or running away from it or denying it or whatever other kind of tools that we were using before to manage our own anxiety. So I think that's probably my biggest hope and that ultimately, maybe some people might begin to experience some sense of healing in their congregations or with their members.  as a result of, of preaching into this setting, that God might, might do something through it. I mean, obviously all of us just as our sermons, we pray that God might use these words. I think it's the same for those of us who write that God might use it somehow,  to do God's work.Sushama Austin-Connor (50:45):Thank you so much. Thank you so much for this time and for this book and what you had to offer to preachers and to lay leaders and to,  just people interested in preaching and oratory, how we speak, how we care for one another. I really appreciate your time.Joni Sancken (51:01):Oh, and I've enjoyed doing this a lot. This is I'm thankful for the chance to talk about this.Dayle Rounds (51:08):You've been listening to The Distillery. Interviews are conducted by me, Dayle Rounds, and me, Sushama Austin-Connor, and I'm Shari Oosting. I'm Amar Peterman and I am in charge of production. Like what you're hearing? Subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Stitcher or your preferred podcast app. The Distillery is a production of Princeton Theological Seminary's Office of Continuing Education. You can find out more at thedistillery.ptsem.edu. Thanks for listening.(Waterdrop sound)

Welcome to The Academic Life. You are smart and capable, but you aren't an island, and neither are we. So we reached across our mentor network to bring you podcasts on everything from how to finish that project, to how to take care of your beautiful mind. Wish we'd bring in an expert about something? Email us at cgessler@gmail.com or dr.danamalone@gmail.com. Find us on Twitter: The Academic Life @AcademicLifeNBN. In this episode you'll hear about: the benefits and challenges of working remotely, being alt-ac, Hindu Studies, founding an online school, and the pandemic shutdowns in Canada. Our guest is: Dr. Raj Balkaran is a prolific independent scholar of Sanskrit narrative texts. He is the author of The Goddess and the King in Indian Myth (Routledge 2018), The Goddess and the Sun in Indian Myth (Routledge 2020) along with a number of articles and book chapters. Having taught comparative religion and mythology at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies for a decade, he now Tutors at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies where he also serves on the Centre's Curriculum Development Board. Alongside his academic training, he has received extensive spiritual training as part of an oral tradition dedicated to the transmission of Indian wisdom teachings. Integrating his academic and spiritual training, he has founded the online School of Indian Wisdom where he designs and delivers original online courses centered on the practical life wisdom to be found in the philosophical, mythological and spiritual traditions of ancient India. Beyond teaching and research, Dr. Balkaran runs a thriving life consulting practice and hosts the New Books in Indian Religions podcast. Our host is: Dr. Christina Gessler, a historian of women and gender. Christina recently met Raj at a Zoom meeting for New Books Network channel hosts, and invited him to come on the Academic Life to share his pandemic perspective. Listeners to this episode might be interested in: School of Indian Wisdom Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies The New Books in Indian Religion podcast The Rāmāyaṇa of Vālmīki: An Epic of Ancient India, Volume I: Balakāṇḍa The Rāmāyaṇa of Vālmīki: An Epic of Ancient India, Volume II: Ayodhyakāṇḍa The Mahabharata, Volume 1: Book 1: The Book of the Beginning The Mahabharata, Volume 2: Book 2: The Book of Assembly In Praise of the Goddess: The Devimahatmya and Its Meaning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/academic-life

Some Canadians love the Royals, while others don't. Rumneek (@rumneeek) sat down with Carol (@caroleugenepark) to talk about the relevance of the Royals and whether Canada could sever its ties with them.Thanks to today's guests: Sahil Morar (@SahilMorar1), and Dr. Carolyn Harris (@royalhistorian) from University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies.Psst! We also have a daily newsletter, which you can sign up for at www.decomplicated.com!Follow us on Twitter (@decomplicatedca) & Instagram (@decomplicatednews).

The age of plant and natural medicine is here, and thought-leaders and medical professionals such as Dr. Hyla Cass, MD are leading the charge. For decades, CBD and hemp products have had negative connotations without fairly being studied or anecdotally applied. We at Cured Nutrition, and most likely you too, believe in the healing power and myriad of overall health benefits of this amazing plant. Class is in section, and Cass is your professor! Nationally acclaimed innovator and expert in the fields of integrative medicine, psychiatry, and addiction recovery, Dr. Cass helps individuals to take charge of their health. One area of expertise is helping individuals to withdraw from both psychiatric medication and substances of abuse with the aid of natural supplements, some of which are part of her own line of innovative nutritional supplements. Dr. Cass appears often as a guest on national radio and television, including The Dr. Oz Show, E! Entertainment, and The View, and in national print media. She is the author of several best-selling books including: Natural Highs, 8 Weeks to Vibrant Health, Supplement your Prescription: What Your Doctor Doesn't Know About Nutrition, and The Addicted Brain and How to Break Free. A member of the Medical Advisory Board of the Health Sciences Institute and Taste for Life Magazine, she is also Associate Editor of Total Health Magazine, she has served on the boards of California Citizens for Health and the American College for Advancement in Medicine (ACAM). A native of Toronto, she graduated from the University of Toronto School of Medicine, interned at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center, and completed a psychiatric residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center/UCLA. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine (ABIHM). Follow Dr. Hyla Cass @hylascassmd Follow Joe @josephsheehey   What does true health mean to you? Connect with us on Instagram @curednutrition and share your journey on our most recent post! Learn more about our products at https://www.curednutrition.com and save 10% with checkout code "COLLECTIVE" For any questions regarding Cured Nutrition products or our movement please email us directly at support@curednutrition.com.