Best Sibyl Towner Podcasts (2025)

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S2, Ep. 06: Journaling: How the N.O.W. Tool Can Help You Name and Process Emotions 24:48

2M ago24:48

24:48

How can you use journaling to process your emotions? In this episode, we introduce you to the N.O.W. Process Tool, an acronym that stands for Notice, Open, and Whole-Self Response, which helps process experiences through the centers of heart, mind, and body. We’ll share exactly how to use this tool for deeper journaling, personal growth, and spirit…

1
S2, Ep. 05 Journaling: How Reviewing Your Days In Writing Helps You Grow 31:09

2M ago31:09

31:09

How can a practice of reviewing your days help you grow spiritually? In this episode, we’re continuing our conversation about spiritual journaling with the practice of Examen. We discuss our personal experiences with journaling as a means to connect with God and reflect on everyday life. This episode highlights the importance of recognizing God's p…

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S2, Ep. 04: Journaling: Finding God in Your Story, with Rebecca and Jay Madden 34:31

3M ago34:31

34:31

How can journaling help you learn to listen to God? In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome special guests Rebecca and Jay Madden as they share how journaling helped them to connect to God and their life story. Jay and Rebecca, authors of the book Breathless Haste, share how journaling played a pivotal role in the writing of their book and their…

1
S02, Ep. 03: Journaling: Prompts to Help You Get Started 18:57

3M ago18:57

18:57

S2, Ep. 3 Journaling: Prompts to Help You Get Started Do you ever wonder what exactly you should write when you journal? In this episode, we continue our discussion about spiritual journaling and how to get started when facing a blank page. We're sharing how journaling prompts can help you overcome the challenge of knowing what to write, and we giv…

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S02, Ep.02: Journaling: Methods and Tips to Discover Your Unique Approach 19:11

4M ago19:11

19:11

Does journaling have to mean writing pages and pages of words? In this episode, we're having a conversation about the countless ways you can approach this practice, and how to make it work for you based on your personality and preferences. Whether it's making a list, using bullet points, doodling, writing by hand, or typing it out, you're sure to f…

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S02, Ep 01: Journaling: How do we REALLY feel about it? 25:14

4M ago25:14

25:14

How can the practice of journaling help you grow spiritually? In this season of the podcast, we’re exploring this together. Listen in as we share our own personal journeys and struggles with journaling, and talk about how we REALLY feel about it. We invite you to commit to trying this practice with us as in this season, we’ll learn how journaling h…

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BONUS: How to Pursue Life Change That Will Last in the New Year 6:58

5M ago6:58

6:58

Do you set goals or resolutions for the New Year, only to forget what they were by Febuary? In this special New Year's Eve bonus episode, we’re talking about how to pursue life change that really lasts as we move into a new year. Rather than focusing on traditional goals, we’ll introduce the concept of projects, which offer more flexibility and a g…

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S1 Ep06: Solitude: The Power of Pre-Deciding Routines and Rhythms of Solitude 14:44

5M ago14:44

14:44

How can pre-deciding help us implement the practice of solitude? In this episode, we’re wrapping up our season on solitude by encouraging you to identify one next step to help you act on your desire to live out this practice. We’ll talk about the power of pre-deciding routines and rhythms to incorporate solitude successfully. This episode will enco…

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S1 Ep05: Solitude: Why do we resist being alone and quiet? 15:16

6M ago15:16

15:16

If we know we need solitude and want to practice it, why do we have so much resistance to it? In this episode, we'll explore the common obstacles to solitude, such as daily distractions and the avoidance of confronting personal thoughts and emotions. We're also sharing more about the REALIFE Practice Membership launching in January, along with an i…

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S1 Ep04: Solitude: Embracing Your Season, with Sibyl Towner 38:40

6M ago38:40

38:40

What does practicing solitude look like in different seasons? Today we are thrilled to welcome special guest Sibyl Towner, spiritual director and Founding Leader of oneLife Maps. She shares her experiences and practical insights on finding quiet spaces in a busy world. Sibyl emphasizes the significance of creating environments conducive to solitude…

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BONUS: Sibyl Towner's Story 48:26

6M ago48:26

48:26

In this special bonus episode of the podcast, you'll hear spiritual director and oneLife Maps Founding Leader Sibyl Towner share her life story. We believe each story matters, and we know you'll be inspired by Sibyl's life and journey with God. JOIN THE REALIFE PRACTICE MEMBERSHIP The REALIFE Practice Membership is designed for those who want to gr…

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S1 Ep03: Solitude: What do I actually DO? Tools and Practices for Solitude 21:02

7M ago21:02

21:02

What do you actually DO in solitude? In this episode, we get really practical as we share practical tools and practices you can engage in during solitude, including various apps like Lectio 365 and Pray As You Go. We also walk you through a technique called “download” and introduce you to The Welcoming Prayer by Thomas Keating. You’ll also hear abo…

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S1 Ep02: Solitude: Finding Your Sacred Space and the Practice of Breath Prayer 20:44

7M ago20:44

20:44

Where is your sacred space for solitude? In this episode, we continue our conversation about the practice of solitude as we explore how it can transform from an obligation to an invitation to connect deeply with God. We discuss creating personal spaces—whether at home, in nature, or even in the car—for reflection and prayer, emphasizing the use of …

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S1 Ep01: Solitude: Naming the Noise 17:37

8M ago17:37

17:37

Welcome to the REALIFE Practice Podcast, Season 1: Solitude. In this episode, we'll introduce the theme of solitude and explore the concept of finding quiet spaces amidst the noise of everyday life. How can we identify sources of noise that keep us from quiet, both internal and external? You'll also hear practical guidance on incorporating solitude…

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Welcome to the REALIFE Practice Podcast 6:37

9M ago6:37

6:37

Join hosts Teresa McCloy and Lindsay Sterchi in the premiere episode of the Real Life Practice Podcast as they reintroduce the former One Life Maps podcast under a new name. This season focuses on the practice of solitude and how to find quiet spaces in our busy lives to connect with God. The hosts share their personal experiences and insights on s…

1
Celebrating a Great Transition for oneLife Maps! 29:00

2y ago29:00

29:00

We are excited to let you know that oneLife Maps will have a new home with the REALIFE Process® and Teresa McCloy’s stellar team. Our teams have had both personal and professional connections for years and we want to share what this move means for you, and why the REALIFE Process® is something we think you’ll be intrigued by, both for yourself and …

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More On Life Story as a Spiritual Practice 28:03

4y ago28:03

28:03

oneLife Maps is, at its core, interested in helping people to recognize and respond to God in their stories. There is so much to be said on the topic of life story as a spiritual practice that we recorded a second episode on the topic that moves in a different direction. I hope you enjoy this one, too. If you have engaged in 'Listen to My Life: Map…

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81. Choose 35:07

4+ y ago35:07

35:07

Sharon Swing hosts a conversation with Jodi Niznik about the life of Moses and her new study, Choose. Jodie Niznik is Adult Ministries Pastor at Irving Bible Church in Irving, Texas. She holds a master’s degree in Christian education with an emphasis in women’s ministry from Dallas Theological Seminary and has served in various pastoral roles in th…

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80. Tell the Story That Pursues You 51:22

4+ y ago51:22

51:22

Jim Brule is a Maggid, a trainer of story-tellers from the Jewish tradition and an End-of-Life Dula. His passion is transformational storytelling -- the art of thought-provoking wisdom-sharing. Listen in as Sharon Swing talks to Jim about how stories connect, transform and heal us. You can learn more about Jim at http://www.transformationalstorytel…

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79. An Unexamined Life is Destined to Repeat Itself 31:04

4+ y ago31:04

31:04

Thomas A'Kempis wisely stated that 'an unexamined life is destined to repeat itself.' What does that mean and what can we learn from the act of examining ourselves and our life stories? Join Host Sharon Swing as she talks it thru with Sibyl Towner and Joan Kelley. If you have engaged in 'Listen to My Life: Maps for Recognizing and Responding to God…

1
78. Self-Aware and God-Aware 31:04

4+ y ago31:04

31:04

Self-Awareness proceeds God-Awareness in the spiritual life. We may have picked up the idea that self-awareness is somehow not considered spiritual. Listen in as Sibyl Towner and Joan Kelley join host, Sharon Swing to discuss the importance of self-awareness in the spiritual life. If you have engaged in 'Listen to My Life: Maps for Recognizing and …

1
77. Life Story as Spiritual Practice 35:28

4+ y ago35:28

35:28

oneLife Maps is, at its core, interested in helping people to recognize and respond to God in their stories. If you have engaged in 'Listen to My Life: Maps for Recognizing and Responding to God in My Story' visual life mapping, you'll see that this conversation relates directly to the bottom line on the 'My Life Story' map, where you are asked to …

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76. Reading Your Life Story 51:26

4+ y ago51:26

51:26

Host, Sharon Swing, welcomes Keith Anderson to the podcast to discuss his book: Reading Your Life’s Story: An Invitation to Spiritual Mentoring: Spiritual mentoring is a particular kind of friendship in which, according to Keith R. Anderson, "two or more people walk together in heightened awareness of the presence of yet Another"―the Holy Spirit. "…

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75. Prison Saved My Life: I Recommend it for Everyone 38:26

4+ y ago38:26

38:26

Louis Dooley was a young man who found himself imprisoned with a life sentence for theft and attempted murder. Through a miraculous turn of events, Louis received Jesus Christ in prison and recognized he had new life in Christ. Today, Louis is a free man providing pastoral counsel to current inmates, in hopes of the gospel setting them free. He is …

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74. Imagination and Prayer 37:27

4+ y ago37:27

37:27

Jason Feffer and I had a fantastic conversation about the role of imagination in spiritual practices -- and it drifted into many more interesting topics and stories. You won't want to miss this delightful, thought-provoking conversation with a good human who knows Jesus in ways many long for -- yet is very possible. God wants to show up for you in …

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73. Exploring Spiritual Direction 48:03

4+ y ago48:03

48:03

We love Cheri Hudspith, and so will you. She lives in rhythms of grace that keep her grounded, listening and delighted in experiencing God's life-changing grace herself and sharing it with others. Our conversation meanders thru topics of Spiritual Direction, Life-Mapping and experiencing God first-hand. Here's her Bio: Cheri served on the staff of …

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72. 28-Day Prayer Journey 38:57

4+ y ago38:57

38:57

Listen into Sharon Swing's conversation with Chrystal Evans Hurst. We'll talk about getting into a regular rhythm of prayer, her new book, '28-Day Prayer Journey,' and her experience with life-mapping using 'Listen to My Life.' Like me, you'll be hoping to meet Chrystal for a cup of coffee and a great conversation on a regular basis. I hope you enj…

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71. Checking In 25:34

4+ y ago25:34

25:34

When we gather people for a workshop or a class, we often ask people to participate in a 'one-word checkin' to help people connect with themselves and others. It helps us become more self-aware, God-aware, and other-aware. You may want to use it by yourself, with or around the dining room table sometime soon! oneLife Maps is, at its core, intereste…

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70. Breath Prayer 22:00

5y ago22:00

22:00

What is breath prayer, and why would you want to know? Calming, connecting, and centering, this way of praying breathes life into any collection of practices. oneLife Maps is, at its core, interested in helping people to recognize and respond to God in their stories. The seven lies Darrell talks about invitations to consider how a few shifts in per…

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69. Real Life with Teresa McCloy 34:13

5y ago34:13

34:13

Forget being productive and do what matters! Teresa loves to help people see the bigger picture and learn to feel fulfilled in all areas of life. As a Certified Coach, Speaker and Enneagram Professional, she guides clients through a step-by-step application of a customized "REALIFE Process," helping real people change their lives by discovering the…

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68. Go to the Desert, Wait for Instruction 48:19

5y ago48:19

48:19

I love Steve Carter. He's a great conversationalist and a good human being. Listen in as Steve and I (Sharon Swing) talk about spiritual formation and life story. He gave plenty of sermons that included encouraging people to dive into their own life stories while he was preaching at Willow Creek Community Church while I was there. I cheered him on …

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67. Are You Responsible To or For Others? 41:21

5y ago41:21

41:21

Are you responsible TO others or responsible FOR them? It's a very useful distinction for all of our relationships. It may keep you out of trouble, improve your relationships, and put words to why having kids grow up messes with us as parents! We have used this important piece of work from the book, 'Listen For Heaven's Sake' in many of our 'Listen…

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63. Silence is the Secret 31:51

5y ago31:51

31:51

Sibyl Towner and Joan Kelley join Sharon Swing to discuss Mama Maggie Gobran's wisdom on silence. “I learned that silence is the secret. Silence your body - to listen to your words. Silence your tongue - to listen to your thoughts. Silence your thoughts - to listen to your heart. Silence your heart - to listen to your spirit. Silence your spirit - …

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66. The Expansiveness of Prayer 46:48

5y ago46:48

46:48

Is all of life prayer? Sharon Swing talks with Sibyl Towner and Joan Kelley about this intriguing idea that may have you thinking about your prayer life in a new and intriguing way. oneLife Maps is, at its core, interested in helping people to recognize and respond to God in their stories. The seven lies Darrell talks about invitations to consider …

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65. Peak Experiences 54:18

5y ago54:18

54:18

One way to help you find your way forward is to do more of what connects you deeply to God-given design. Peak Experiences is the name of the 3rd visual map in the 'Listen to My Life' portfolio. Host of the oneLife Maps Podcast and Co-Author or 'Listen to My Life,' Sharon Swing, discusses the power of mapping and finding themes shared by peak experi…

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64. Choosing Life-Giving Rhythms 38:19

5y ago38:19

38:19

How might you go about selecting spiritual practices that fit for this season of your life? How might you expand the number of possibilities? Sharon Swing hosts a conversation with Co-Author of 'Listen to My Life: Maps for Recognizing and Responding to God in My Story,' Sibyl Towner and Joan Kelley, Director of Facilitator Development for oneLife M…

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62. The Joy of Daily Solitude 33:18

5y ago33:18

33:18

Jon Peacock has come to love his daily time of solitude. He says he's become a better man because of it. He loves his dog, Jack, too. Jack is a big part of making this spiritual practice a part of his life. Jon is a Founding Pastor of Mission Church in Bloomingdale, IL. He is husband to Kelly and dad to his two beautiful, growing daughters. He's go…

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61. Human(Kind) 40:48

5y ago40:48

40:48

I love this conversation with Ashlee Eiland. I love Ashlee. You will, too. Please listen to a piece of her story here, and then also read her book, "Human(Kind): How Reclaiming Human Worth and Embracing Radical Kindness Will Bring Us Back Together." Her memoir in short essays recounts events in her life that shaped her view of herself, of God and t…

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60. Journaling as a Spiritual Practice 21:21

5y ago21:21

21:21

Liz Lassa, Creator of the 'Spiritual Circle Journal' joins us for a conversation on how journaling helps us become God-aware and self-aware. The specifics of the journaling prompts will help you get started on this very useful tool for spiritual growth. You can purchase the 'Spiritual Circle Journal' at https://spiritualcirclejournal.com and find o…

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59. Invitations from God 42:43

5y ago42:43

42:43

Adele Calhoun joins Sharon Swing for a conversation about Adele's book, 'Invitations from God.' Here's a description of her book: Some invitations we desperately want: "Will you marry me?" "Would you consider a promotion?" Other invitations we never want to receive but must respond to all the same: "What treatment do you want for your tumor?" Invit…

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58. What Does This Allow? 16:44

5y ago16:44

16:44

In uncertain times, or times of difficulty, this question of, 'what does this allow?' becomes a challenge to be at our best for the benefit of others. So, today, in the midst of the uncertainty of the corona virus pandemic, what does this question stir in you? What attitude will you choose and actions might you take? Journey thru 'Listen to My Life…

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57. When Narcissism Comes to Church 37:41

5y ago37:41

37:41

My story, (Sharon Swing) has been blessed by effective leaders and harmed by unhealthy leaders. All of our stories contain chapters where people have influenced us in ways that shape us. Sometimes we have a choice over who leads us, and sometimes we have not had not. Leaders have a way of intentionally or unintentionally influencing our behavior, o…

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56. Let Your Life Speak 38:43

5y ago38:43

38:43

Sharon Swing and Sibyl Towner have a conversation prompted by a quote from Parker Palmer's book, 'Let Your Life Speak.' Here's a description of the book from Amazon: With wisdom, compassion, and gentle humor, Parker J. Palmer invites us to listen to the inner teacher and follow its leadings toward a sense of meaning and purpose. Telling stories fro…

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55. A Roadmap for Spiritual Formation 43:05

5+ y ago43:05

43:05

Sibyl Towner was prepared to teach on a Roadmap for Spiritual Formation the evening we recorded this episode. She had Robert Mulholland's book, 'An Invitation to a Journey: A Roadmap for Spiritual Formation' on her mind. We hope you enjoy this episode of Sharon Swing and Joan Kelley enjoying a good conversation with Sibyl. You can purchase the book…

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54. A Field Guide to Relationships 40:03

5+ y ago40:03

40:03

Christopher T. Rogers is a Marriage and Family Therapist from Asheville, NC who helps people to to bridge the gap between emotional and relational pain and healthful wholeness. On this episode, Sharon and Chris talk thru and overview of his book, 'A Field Guide to Relationships: Observing Humans in Their Natural Habitat.' With practical wisdom, Chr…

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53. The Ignation Journey 36:35

5+ y ago36:35

36:35

Lori Shoults is producer of Sibyl's Book Club -- and so much more! She is a catalyst on many teams producing great work in for the benefit of others' spiritual formation. Sharon Swing and Joan Kelley talk with Lori about her passion for the Ignation Exercises and her journey in finding God in ways she never knew existed. oneLife Maps is, at its cor…

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52. This Christmas Hope 44:45

5+ y ago44:45

44:45

This Christmas Hope with Alexander John Shaia - Episode 52 Alexander Shaia is a thoughtful and poetic man, living the ancient rhythms of his Lebanese and Aramaic heritage. Alexander is a Spiritual Director, Educator, Psychologist and passionate professional speaker traveling internationally, lecturing and leading retreats and workshops. When not on…

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51. Listening, Learning & Leading 44:13

5+ y ago44:13

44:13

Lisa Anderson-Umaña is Director of Leadership Development in Latin America for Christian Camping International, and an Affirmed 'Listen to My Life Life' Map Guide. Lisa talks with Sibyl Towner and Sharon Swing about Listening, Learning and Leading. Please explore www.onelifemaps.com to download a free introduction booklet to 'Listen to My Life: Map…

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50. The Body-Soul Connection 44:07

5+ y ago44:07

44:07

What is the connection between our bodies and our souls? When trauma is stored in the body, how might one consider the movement of the body as a part of the healing process? Jean Masukavich is a Trauma Sensitive Yoga Teacher, a Christian Spiritual Director, and co-founder of SOWthat.com Jean has recorded an audio moving prayer meditation for our Pa…

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49. Original Blessing 54:24

5+ y ago54:24

54:24

Darrell Smith is our guest on today's podcast as we discuss the concepts of 'Original Sin' and 'Original Blessing' as theological underpinnings that have deep implications for how we come to know who God is, who we are as individuals, and how we see one another. As it turns out, where you begin has serious implications for living. Darrell Smith is …

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