Advertise on podcast: Earthkeepers: A Circlewood Podcast on Creation Care and Spirituality

Send us a voice note In this conversation, Abram Bicksler shares insights into his work with ECHO, a Christian nonprofit focused on sustainable agriculture and food systems. He discusses the organization's core values, the importance of creation care, and his personal connection to nature. Abram elaborates on the concept of sustainable agriculture, the significance of agroecology, and how these principles are applied in real-world contexts, particularly in Southeast Asia.  The discussion emphasizes the interconnectedness of food systems, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. Forrest and Abram discuss the transition from traditional agricultural practices to industrialized farming, highlighting the negative impacts on communities and the environment. Ab shares inspiring stories of communities that have returned to sustainable practices, emphasizing the importance of diversity and co-creation in agriculture. They also explore the concept of ecological community development, the significance of watersheds, and the interconnectedness of caring for creation and neighborly love. Bicksler advocates for a holistic approach to community development that includes both human and ecological needs, framing creation care as a vital aspect of the gospel.  Keywords Abram Bicksler, Echo, sustainable agriculture, agroecology, creation care, environmental science, Christian nonprofit, food systems, global impact, community engagement agriculture, sustainability, community development, agroecology, watershed management, creation care, food systems, environmental health, local farming, ecological community, A Rocha, Plant with Purpose Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this episode, cohosted by Forrest Inslee and Stephanie Vander Lugt, Julie Brams discusses the profound connection between nature and mental health, emphasizing the importance of re-rooting our minds in the natural world to foster healing and wholeness. The proposition at the heart of this conversation is, that humanity’s fundamental separation from nature is at the heart of so many of the mental health struggles prevalent in society today. Julie Brams, has carefully and gracefully sought to make this case in her new book, The Nature Embedded Mind: How the Way We Think Can Heal Our Planet and Ourselves.  Drawing on her own process of discovery as a mental health practitioner, Julie makes a compelling case for a profound shift of thinking needed at this point in history, especially in light of the suffering of this planet brought about by humankind. Links: Julie Brams website: Elemental The book: The Nature Embedded Mind Stephanie Vander Lugt Stephanie’s community: Kinship Plot   Key  Topics: The concept of the nature embedded mind and its importanceHow Western culture has separated humans from nature and the effectsPractical ways to foster relationship with nature in therapy and daily lifeThe role of language in shaping our relationship with the environmentResistance within the mental health field to ecological approachesThe collective stories that shape our worldview and how to transform themThe importance of playfulness and curiosity in reconnecting with natureThe scientific basis for the interconnectedness of mind, body, and earthKeywords: eco-psychology, nature-based therapy, mental health, relationship with nature, language, healing, wholeness, cultural stories, environmental psychology   Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this Earthkeepers Essentials archive episode, Wes Willison shares his journey from political awareness to ecological engagement, exploring how faith, community, and practical actions like gun decommissioning serve as acts of hope and transformation. In particular, he and Forrest explore ways in which we can resist despair and practice grace for ourselves in a world fraught with really difficult and sometimes overwhelming problems. In that framework, they discuss the importance of sacramental practices in environmental and social justice work, and how surprise and resilience shape our response to a challenging future.  Information:  Wes WillisonShane ClaiborneThe Simple Way communityKey  Topics o   Wes Willison's background and journey into earth care o   The role of seminary and the Farminary project in ecological understanding o   The significance of sacramental practices in environmental work o   The process of decommissioning guns as a symbol of hope and transformation o   The impact of political shifts and generational perspectives on climate anxiety o   Coping mechanisms for depression and anxiety related to climate change o   The potential for surprise and new hope in political and ecological contexts o   The importance of community, faith, and practical action in shaping a sustainable future   Keywords ecology, faith, social justice, gun decommissioning, community, hope, sacrament, environmental activism, mental health, generational change, depression, self-care, Princeton Farminary, compost theology, Norm Wirzba   Some Takeaways Sacramental practices can serve as powerful acts of hope and transformation in social and ecological justice.Engaging with the earth through work like composting and farming reveals God's presence in creation.Decommissioning guns and repurposing their parts into art and tools symbolizes hope and healing.Surprise is a key indicator of the Spirit's activity and a source of hope in dark times.Coping with climate anxiety involves intentional practices of rest, community, and engagement.  Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this episode from our archives, we explore the profound connection between humans and the natural world through the lens of place-based education, hunting, and relational awareness. Guest Joel Pontius shares his insights on cultivating respect, gratitude, and deep relationships with land and animals, emphasizing how these practices can transform our understanding and care for the Earth. When we did this interview, Joel was an educator, and we discussed in detail his thought-provoking approach to place-based education. The conversation considers how we might teach and form the young people in our lives so that they might better love and care for the planet. Joel’s Info Essay: Hearts Like This in Christ & Cascadia Mentions: Goshen College Merry Lea Environmental center & ecovillage Goshen College sustainable farm canoeing on the Elkhart river  Lake Michigan toxic forms of masculinity  Key  Topics Place-based education and its impact on ecological understandingThe role of hunting in developing respect and gratitude for animalsPractices for building relational awareness with land and creaturesThe importance of humility and reverence in environmental stewardshipThe intersection of science, art, and spirituality in understanding natureHow relational practices can foster hope and agency in climate actionThe significance of gratitude and apology in human-nature interactionsThe influence of childhood experiences on environmental valuesKeywords place-based education, ecology, hunting, gratitude, relational awareness, sustainability, natural history, spiritual connection, environmental education   Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note This episode delves into the spiritual, cultural, and ecological significance of untouched wilderness and our role as “keepers” or caretakers of such spaces. Jim Stump, Vice President of BioLogos and host of the Language of God podcast, shares about his recent journey to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, exploring the intersection of faith, creation care, and environmental advocacy.  Jim speaks up against the potential abuse of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, but also shares about the ways he himself was deeply impacted by his encounters with the inhabitants of that remote wilderness—both human and more than human. Links: Jim StumpBiologosLanguage of God podcastJim Stump’s Substack – photos and essays about ANWR American Lands ProjectGwich’in NationAlaska National Wildlife RefugeAlaska Wilderness and Resource Extraction                  Alaska Public Media                  Earth JusticeResponse/Action Steps (see the end of the article)  Key  Topics: Jim Stump's background in philosophy and scienceThe purpose and experience of the Arctic tripThe indigenous Gwichin people's relationship to the landThe environmental and spiritual significance of the Arctic RefugeChristian vocation to care for creationHope and faith in environmental activismThe role of indigenous wisdom in conservationPractical steps for advocacy and awareness  Keywords: creation care, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, faith and environment, indigenous wisdom, climate change, conservation, Christian vocation, environmental justice, stewardship, Jim Stump, Gwich’in Nation, grizzly bears, Porcupine caribou, Arctic Village, earthkeeping Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this engaging interview, Bill McKibben shares insights on climate change, renewable energy, and the role of faith communities in fostering cultural and technological change. Discover practical solutions, spiritual perspectives, and inspiring stories that motivate collective action for a sustainable future.  McKibben’s writing has appeared in countless publications like The New Yorker and Rolling Stone, and he has written many books over the last few decades. In this perspective-broadening interview, Bill shares insights on climate change, renewable energy, and the role of faith communities in fostering cultural and technological change. This conversation covers practical solutions, spiritual perspectives, and inspiring stories that motivate collective action for a sustainable future. In particular, he claims that now more than ever we need creative thinking about implementing renewable energy strategies. And faith communities, he says, do have a special role to play. This episode, cocreated by Circlewood and our partner organization A Rocha USA, is cohosted by James Amadon, executive director of Circlewood, and by Deb Rienstra, a writer, speaker, and professor who serves on A Rocha USA’s advisory board.  Links  Bill McKibben’s website Here Comes the Sun by Bill McKibben A Rocha USA Deb Rienstra’s website Earthkeepers Episode 85: Becoming Hope: Debra Rienstra on Her Book Refugia Faith The Vatican’s solar project Third Act: Harnessing generational power to safeguard our climate and democracy. 350.org: Fighting climate change for people and planet A Rocha USA: Ways to get involved TEND: Cultivating faith-based, creation-focused community Advocating for plug-in solar   Key  Topics  The economic shift towards renewable energy The spiritual and cultural role in environmental change Practical steps for individuals and communities Older generations and their special capacities Churches who choose to pursue renewables as acts of love   Keywords  climate change, renewable energy, faith communities, cultural change, environmental activism, solar power, policy, spirituality, sustainability, environmental justice; Laudato Si, Pope Francis, Pope Leo, plug-in solar, agrovoltaics, solar farms and ecological diversity, wind turbines as ocean reefs, Think Global Do Justice Podcast    Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note Our guest is well-known author, journalist and environmentalist, Bill McKibben. His writing has appeared in countless publications like The New Yorker and Rolling Stone, and he has written many books over the last few decades. In this engaging interview, Bill shares insights on climate change, renewable energy, and the role of faith communities in fostering cultural and technological change. This conversation covers practical solutions, spiritual perspectives, and inspiring stories that motivate collective action for a sustainable future. This episode, cocreated by Circlewood and our partner organization A Rocha USA, is cohosted by James Amadon, executive director of Circlewood, and by Deb Rienstra, a writer, speaker, and professor who serves on A Rocha USA’s advisory board. Links Bill McKibben’s websiteHere Comes the Sun by Bill McKibbenA Rocha USADeb Rienstra’s websiteEarthkeepers Episode 85: Becoming Hope: Debra Rienstra on Her Book Refugia FaithThe Vatican’s solar projectThird Act: Harnessing generational power to safeguard our climate and democracy.350.org: Fighting climate change for people and planetA Rocha USA: Ways to get involvedTEND: Cultivating faith-based, creation-focused communityAdvocating for plug-in solarKey  Topics The economic shift towards renewable energyThe spiritual and cultural role in environmental changePractical steps for individuals and communities Keywords climate change, renewable energy, faith communities, cultural change, environmental activism, solar power, policy, spirituality, sustainability, environmental justice; Laudato Si, Pope Francis, Pope Leo, plug-in solar Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note Summary Explore the profound role of poetry and lament in addressing climate change, grief, and community resilience through the insights of authors Philip Mingay and Michael Ferber. In this episode, we take a look at their new book—a collection of poems and essays they have edited called Climate of Lament: Reflections on Ecological Grief. Mike and Philip—and the many other contributors to this volume—model for us a way to enter into the pain of letting our hearts be broken…and show us ways in which poetry can serve as a means of expressing both individual and collective sorrow. Importantly, in its inclusion of a range of authors from diverse vocational and cultural backgrounds, Climate of Lament shows us that poetry as an expressive form can be accessed by anyone—by professional poets, but also by those average folks for whom poetry is a new language we are learning to speak. Climate of Lament book website   Key Topics The role of art and literature in climate change discourse The significance of lament and grief in environmental activism Diversity of voices in climate poetry and reflections The process of creating and sharing poetry of lament The impact of community and place on environmental expression   Keywords: climate change, lament, poetry, community, environmental grief, art and activism, climate of lament, storytelling, community resilience, environmental poetry Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this special 150th Earthkeepers episode, Kathleen Audet of the Styled Clean podcast and Forrest Inslee discuss the ways in which faith and ecological are intertwined. Niki Hardy of the Wildly Known Life podcast helps frame this conversation, in which Kathleen and Forrest consider such topics as sensing God in nature, deepening relationships to the ecologies of our places, and even shifting our paradigms to see the connections between creation care and missions work.  Resources & Links:  ·      Christine Sine’s Walking in Wonder substack ·      A Rocha US, Churches of Restoration ·      Norman Wirzba books, including Agrarian Spirituality         ·      Seminary of the Wild ·      Niki Hardy’s Wildly Known Life podcast ·      Kathleen Audet’s Styled Clean podcast Keywords: creation care, spirituality, ecology, earthworms, community, environmental stewardship, faith-based environmentalism, sustainable living, nature listening, climate change, fast fashion, missions, community development  Main Topics:  The spiritual dimension of caring for creation and its roots in faith traditionsThe story of Rachel’s worm rescue as a metaphor for spiritual transformation and environmental consciousnessHow listening to creation and understanding local stories foster environmental awarenessPractical ways to begin living more earth-honoring lives, including outdoor practices and community involvementThe relationship between decolonization, indigenous knowledge, and ecological restorationChallenges and community strategies for overcoming resistance to sustainabilityThe importance of a worldview rooted in creation-centered spirituality and simple daily acts     Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this insightful interview, Drew, an army chaplain with nearly 19 years of service, shares his unique perspective on the intersection of faith, culture, nature, and military service. Discover how his approach to relational encounters and understanding diverse backgrounds enhances his support for soldiers and fosters healing through nature and community.  Drew’s LinkedIn Drew’s YouTube channel Drew’s Insta  key  topics The role of military chaplains in supporting religious libertiesThe concept of I-Thou versus I-It relationships and its application in military and nature The impact of cultural understanding and diversity training for chaplainsHow outdoor activities and nature foster healing and trust among soldiersThe environmental considerations in military operations and trainingkeywords Military chaplain, faith and culture, nature and healing, relational spirituality, diversity in the military, environmental consciousness, community development, spiritual support, military service, ecological impact, Elwha dam removal, Elwha people   Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this conversation, guest host Noah Guthrie interviews Ciro Flores Cabrera about the vital work of A Rocha in environmental conservation across Peru. They consider A Rocha’s prioritization on helping to preserve traditional culture of native peoples in connection to their work of protecting native flora and fauna. Their conversation highlights community engagement, ecosystem restoration, and the spiritual connection to caring for God's creation.   A Rocha A Rocha Peru Noah Guthrie’s essay regarding his time in Peru, on The Ecological Disciple Key  Topics ·      Ecosystem restoration in dry forests and the Amazon ·      Community involvement and indigenous knowledge ·      The spiritual and biblical basis of environmental care  Keywords Machiguenga, Environmental Conservation, Peru, Amazon, Dry Forest, Community Engagement, Ecosystem Restoration, Indigenous Knowledge, Biofauna, Sacred Nature, Christian Ministry, acacia, carob, entrepreneurship, environmental education, tilapia Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this insightful interview, Forrest and Brendan McClenahan discuss the launch of TEND, a free creation care curriculum rooted in faith and community. They explore the barriers and opportunities for integrating creation care into church life, emphasizing relational healing, indigenous wisdom, and practical actions that reconnect people with their place and creation. The TEND curriculum website Plant with Purpose Key  topics Creation care as spiritual practice Barriers to environmental engagement in churches Opportunities for community-based creation care The role of indigenous wisdom in environmental stewardship  Keywords creation care, faith, community, indigenous wisdom, environmental restoration, spiritual formation, church, sustainability, relational healing Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this episode, Forrest Inslee and Jo Swinney spend time with Ruth Padilla deBorst of A Rocha Costa Rica, sharing experiences and insights on creation care and community living. Ruth highlights the organization's growth, and its commitment to creation care, community engagement, and environmental justice. In particular, she describes the ways that her intentional community, called Casa Adobe, works to foster deep connection between people and nature, and people with other people. The conversation delves into the challenges of seeking such environmental restoration, addressing issues like river pollution, greenwashing, and the need for a more profound understanding of our particular places. Ruth also emphasizes the importance of caring for creation alongside others in community, advocating for a shift from an individualistic, consumption-orientation to shared responsibility and mutual support. The episode concludes with practical advice for listeners on how to engage in meaningful environmental action, and the ways that we can balance lament for the current state of the planet while at the same time remaining hopeful for the future. Keywords creation care, environmental justice, intentional community, A Rocha International, A Rocha Costa Rica, storytelling, ecological stewardship, community living, environmental activism, hope, indigenous wisdom, composting, theology of creation Takeaways  Jo Swinney: "I am primarily a storyteller, trying to inspire people to do what they can where they are."Ruth Padilla DeBorst: "It's hard for me to imagine caring thoroughly for creation if we don't get off that train of consumption and accumulation."Ruth Padilla DeBorst: "The most powerful possibility of transformation is communal."Ruth Padilla DeBorst: "Recognizing the river as our sister is an expression of worship of God, not of the river, but of the creator."Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this episode, Forrest Inslee engages with Ben Lowe (A Rocha USA) and James Amadon (Circlewood) to discuss current environmental challenges and the role of faith communities in addressing these issues. They explore the importance of partnerships, the need for theological reflection and repentance, and the significance of community action in resisting destructive trends. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of love and relationality in ecological advocacy, as well as personal growth in ecological thinking. A Rocha US A Rocha International Take Aways The external circumstances regarding climate change are dire, but organizational work is thriving.Partnerships between organizations can enhance resilience and impact.The church has a critical role in environmental advocacy, but has often been absent.Political polarization affects the church's engagement with environmental issues.Repentance is essential for the church to align with God's call to care for creation.Resistance to harmful practices must be rooted in love and community.Local actions can have a significant impact on environmental health.Personal connection to nature fosters resilience and hope.Theological reflection is necessary for effective environmental action.Communal resistance strengthens community bonds and fosters collective action.Keywords environment, climate change, church, ecological justice, partnership, community, resilience, repentance, love, action, A Rocha USA, Circlewood, environmental justice Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple

Send us a voice note In this conversation, Christy Berghoef talks with Forrest about her book Rooted: A Spiritual Memoir of Homecoming that explores themes of community and the connection to the land, as a foundation for living lives of social and environmental action. She reflects on her journey back to her family farm in Michigan, the challenges of navigating a conservative community with differing views, and the importance of finding a sense of belonging. The discussion also delves into the balance between contemplation and action in social justice work, the dynamics of toxic tribalism versus communal belonging, and the significance of allowing children to experience freedom and wildness. Christy also emphasizes the need for courage in speaking out and finding community. Christy Berghoef, Doctor of Ministry in The Sacred Art of Writing Blog: Wheat & Willow Author of Rooted: A Spiritual Memoir of Homecoming Author of Cracking the Pot: A Spiritual Memoir of Expansion Takeaways Home is where you can be who you really are.The land provides a deep connection and sense of belonging.Finding balance between contemplation and action is essential.Toxic tribalism creates division; communal belonging fosters connection.Speaking out can help others realize they are not alone.Children need freedom to explore and learn from nature.Political engagement can impact family dynamics and community.Adversity can lead to growth and understanding, even and especially in kids.Living with less can contribute to environmental justice.Community action is vital for systemic change.Keywords: spiritual memoir, homecoming, community, environmental justice, contemplative photography, social change, toxic tribalism, communal belonging, childhood freedom, political engagement, environmental activism Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple