Things I Wish I Knew

In this episode, Julia speaks with Christine Allen, the director of CAFOD, about her remarkable journey in faith and leadership, as well as the importance of authenticity in her role. Christine shares her experiences growing up in a cradle Catholic family, and reflects on her unexpected path from studying philosophy and international relations to becoming a leader in the Church, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way. With a focus on the significance of women’s contributions in leadership roles, Christine discusses the need for humility, discernment, and the power of prayer in making tough decisions. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod

Julia Corcoran continues the conversation with Lauren Windle, who opens up about the tough realities of addiction and the struggle to stay sober in a world that often normalises drinking. Lauren reminds us that addiction can affect anyone, regardless of background. She talks about the importance of having a solid support system, setting boundaries when out with friends, and the exciting new alcohol-free options that are popping up everywhere! Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod

In this powerful conversation, Julia sits down with Lauren Windle to explore her inspiring journey from addiction to over 11 years of sobriety. Lauren shares how alcohol and drugs once felt like an escape from social anxiety and a way to fit in, until they took a devastating toll on her life. She opens up about the turning point that led her to seek help, the challenges of early addiction recovery, and how faith and community became anchors in her healing process. This episode offers an honest look at the complexities of addiction and the transformative power of grace, resilience, and support. Find out more at: www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod

In this episode, Julia speaks with Reverend Jonathan Aitken, a former MP who shares his transformative journey from a life of politics to an 18-month prison sentence for perjury, and ultimately to becoming an ordained minister. Reverend Jonathan reflects on his time in prison, discussing the challenges he faced, the unexpected sense of community he found among fellow inmates, and the profound role that faith played in his life during those difficult times. He shares insights into the power of prayer, the importance of humility, and the grace he has experienced through his relationship with God. Find out more at www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod

In this reflective episode, Julia is joined by producer Ethel as they pause to consider the journey of the podcast and the themes that have emerged so far.  Together, they discuss the importance of community, the unexpected paths life can take, and the power of gratitude in their personal and spiritual lives. Find out more at www.thinkingfaith.org Follow us on Instagram: @tiwik_pod

In this episode, Julia speaks with Jean Kabasomi, a freelance consultant with a background in banking and theology. They delve into the realities of growing up in a world that feels very different from the one previous generations knew. Jean shares her insights on the pressures of home ownership, career expectations, and the influence of social media, as well as the evolving role of the Church for millennials and Gen Z. Find out more at www.thinkingfaith.org.

In this episode, Julia speaks with Charlie Bennett, a passionate teacher who shares his journey from the charity sector to the classroom. He reflects on how his experiences shaped his vocation and the profound impact of faith on his teaching philosophy. Charlie discusses the joys and challenges of teaching, the importance of social justice in education, and how he navigates the highs and lows of working with young people. He also touches on the unique environment of Catholic schools and the sense of community they foster. Find out more at www.thinkingfaith.org.

In this episode, Julia chats with Sarah Barber about her journey through over 30 years of marriage. They look back on how it all began, the ups and downs along the way, and how faith has played a big role in their story. Sarah shares what she's learned about communication, commitment, and growing together over time.  Find out more at www.thinkingfaith.org.

In this episode, Julia chats with Ruth Holgate, Director of St Beuno’s retreat centre in Wales, about prayer as a simple and personal conversation with God. Ruth shares her journey from growing up Catholic to deepening her faith through retreats, theology studies, and spiritual direction. She talks about the impact of her first 30-day silent retreat and why it’s important to find your own way to pray. They explore the ups and downs of prayer and discernment, with Ruth reminding us that there’s no wrong way to pray. Just show up, keep it simple, and stay open. Find out more at www.thinkingfaith.org

In this episode, Julia speaks with Maria Christian, who works at St. Beuno's Jesuit retreat centre. Maria shares about her  journey into the world of Islamic studies and inter-religious dialogue. She recounts her initial misconceptions about Islam, shaped by her upbringing in a predominantly white, Catholic environment, and how her experiences at a diverse sixth form challenged those views. She reflects on her academic journey, from her unexpected passion for Middle Eastern history to her transformative time at Oxford, where she explored the rich tapestry of medieval sexuality in the context of Islamic history.  Maria also highlights her experiences in Jordan, where she witnessed the warmth and hospitality of Muslim communities, further enriching her perspective on faith and humanity. Editor's Note: Maria mentions that Palestinian Muslims baptised their children into the 19th century, but textual evidence only supports this practice up to the 12th century. Later references are based on oral history and hearsay. Water holds sacred meaning for both Muslims and Christians in Palestine, but the baptism claim lacks written support beyond the 12th century. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.

In this episode, Julia sits down with Susan Akyeampong, a communications lead and freelance writer, to delve into the complexities of friendship and the importance of setting boundaries. Susan shares her journey from her childhood in Brighton to her university experience in Nottingham, highlighting the challenges of making genuine connections in a busy world. She reflects on how her faith and relationship with Jesus have shaped her understanding of adult friendship, emphasising the need for deep, meaningful relationships that support one another through life's ups and downs. Join them as they explore the significance of being vulnerable, the necessity of communication in friendships, and how to navigate the pressures of maintaining connections in a fast-paced society. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.

In this episode, Julia speaks with Laura Angarita Romero, a passionate advocate for social change, who shares her transformative journey from Colombia to the UK and her experience working for Jesuit Missions. Laura reflects on her growing up in Colombia, a country marked by conflict, and how her Jesuit education shaped her desire to create meaningful change. She discusses her work with various NGOs, highlighting the importance of empowering communities and the shift in mission work from a top-down approach to one that amplifies local voices. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.

In this episode, Julia speaks with Edward Badu, a passionate advocate for social justice, who shares his inspiring journey from growing up in Tottenham to making a significant impact in public life. Edward opens up about the challenges he faced in his early years and how his Jesuit education helped shape his values of service, leadership, and faith. He shares the key moments that inspired his work in community organising and how he’s now focused on empowering young people to reach their full potential. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.

In this episode, Julia speaks with Georgia Clarke, a dedicated youth minister and a member of Catholic Voices, about her remarkable journey of faith and discernment. Georgia shares how saying yes to God shaped her path, the role of discernment, and the power of mentorship and community in faith. Join them as they explore the realities of youth ministry, the necessity of saying yes to God's invitations, and the incredible ways in which God confirms His presence in our lives. Georgia's heartfelt insights remind us that the path of faith is filled with unexpected joys, challenges, and the ever-present call to trust in God's goodness. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.

Julia speaks with Andy Southey, a church leader and passionate runner from Nottingham, about his life-altering experience during a half-marathon. Andy shares his journey from the joy of running to facing a life-threatening head injury mid-race. He reflects on the challenges of recovery, the complex relationship he has with running, and how he ultimately found God's presence in both the highs and lows of his experience. Together, they discuss the importance of hope, the significance of community, and the profound lessons learned along the way. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.

In this episode, Julia speaks with Sir John Battle, a former government minister and passionate advocate for social justice, who shares his journey from seminary to politics. John reflects on his early experiences in a working-class Irish family, his time in seminary, and how these shaped his commitment to community activism and public service. He candidly discusses the challenges of balancing family life with a demanding political career, the importance of grassroots movements, and the need for authentic relationships in politics. Together, they explore the intersection of faith and public service, the complexities of modern politics, and the vital role of community in fostering change. John's insights on resilience, relationships, and the necessity of a shared voice for the voiceless offer a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on their community. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.

Julia speaks with Emma Hudson, the director of Pray as you Go, about her deeply transformative experience walking the Camino de Santiago... again! Emma opens up about her journey of self-discovery, sharing the challenges of walking alone and the profound sense of community that embraced her along the way. Together, they explore the spiritual significance of pilgrimage, the emotional highs and lows, and the unexpected ways in which God met Emma during her journey. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.

Julia sits down with church leader Nigel Langford, who shares his journey of adoption just before the pandemic hit. From the heartbreak of infertility to the joy and challenge of becoming a parent in lockdown, Nigel opens up about the misconceptions of family, the emotional highs and lows, and God's presence throughout it all. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.

Julia chats with Delphine Chui about her dating journey, the power of a dating fast, and how faith helped her rediscover love. They explore emotional vs. physical attraction, dating with intention, and building confidence in a digital world. A heartfelt conversation on self-love, resilience, and the lessons Delphine wishes she knew earlier. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.

If you’ve ever felt alone in a crowd or wondered what your loneliness is trying to tell you, this conversation is for you.  Fr. Justin Claravall, SJ joins Julia to explore loneliness in city life, how we’re trained to disconnect, and how our hunger for connection points to something deeper. Visit www.thinkingfaith.org to learn more.