Best Rowan and Joy Podcasts (2025)

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Melody Ann Owen on Publishing for a Kinder Future 41:19

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6h ago41:19

41:19

Melody Ann Owen, founder of Author Nation, joins Michael to discuss storytelling, kindness, and helping nonfiction authors create a lasting legacy. From surviving a traumatic childhood to helping experts publish books with heart, Melody shares how curiosity, mercy, and courage shape her life and work. 🚀🚀🚀 Connect with Melody Ann Owen 🚀🚀🚀 https://Au…

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Jenny Biglands & Vicky Broadbent – Therapy, Nature and the Wild Within (N353) 1:50:34

1h ago1:50:34

1:50:34

In this conversation, Joy sits down with eco-therapists Jenny Biglands and Vicky Broadbent to explore the growing field of ecotherapy, where nature itself becomes a partner in the healing process. Jenny and Vicky reflect on their faith journeys, what led them into therapeutic work, and how moving outdoors has transformed their practice. They explor…

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Nicole J. Phillips: Why Kindness is Contagious 48:46

5d ago48:46

48:46

Meet Nicole J. Phillips. She is a speaker, author, chaplain, and host of The Kindness Podcast. She joins host Michael G. Neece to talk about the power of reframing your thoughts, practicing kindness during crisis, and her move from North Dakota to North Carolina after a major life shake-up. Nicole opens up about her early battles with depression, h…

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Peter Rowan: The Bluegrass Buddha's Tex-Mex Roots, ep. 327 1:08:54

6d ago1:08:54

1:08:54

Legendary Massachusetts-born, California-based musician Peter Rowan is best known for his bluegrass roots. A practicing Buddhist, he did time in Bill Monroe's Blue Grass Boys as well as in the short-lived and epically important Old & In the Way with Jerry Garcia and David Grisman. However, his latest album 'Tales of the Free Mexican Airforce' celeb…

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Jill Lublin on The Profit of Kindness and Building Meaningful Visibility 28:42

12d ago28:42

28:42

In this episode of Our Future Is Kind, Michael welcomes Jill Lublin, international speaker, media coach, and bestselling author of The Profit of Kindness. Together, they unpack what it means to consciously choose kindness every day—at home, in business, and in the broader world. Jill shares the story behind her globally attended Kindness Circles, w…

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Selina Stone - Power Unmasked, Faith Reimagined (N352) 2:01:01

16d ago2:01:01

2:01:01

In this conversation, womanist theologian Selina Stone reflects on the hidden ways power is shaped by theology — and how theology, in turn, can be shaped by power. Drawing on her book A Heavy Yoke: Theology, Power and Abuse in the Church, she explores how divine calling, servant leadership, and spiritual authority can all become tools of control, e…

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The Business Case for Kindness - Linda Cohen on Leadership, Legacy, and a Joyful Future 41:32

19d ago41:32

41:32

Linda Cohen, the Kindness Catalyst, shares how compassion and connection are not only human essentials but strategic business advantages. From workplace leadership to personal rituals of joy, this episode will recharge your heart and reframe your sense of impact. Kindness challenge: • Choose one small, intentional act of kindness today—like helping…

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Rissi Palmer & Miko Marks: "Buckle Bunny," No Cringe, and My Black Country, ep. 326 1:07:02

20d ago1:07:02

1:07:02

This time on Basic Folk, we are checking in with country singer-songwriter and Color Me Country radio host Rissi Palmer and Americana country artist Miko Marks. The two close friends both came up as Black women in country music in the early part of the 21st century where they experienced gatekeepers and discrimination in the industry, but undeniabl…

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Rachel Rowan on Kind Leadership, Trans Allyship & Workplace Humanity 34:25

26d ago34:25

34:25

In this deeply personal and thoughtful episode of Our Future Is Kind, Michael welcomes Rachel Rowan, Chief of Content at the leadership consultancy founded by Kristen Hadeed. Together, they explore what it means to build workplaces where people truly feel they belong—and how those environments transform not just productivity, but lives as well. Rac…

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Vibe Coaches: Maya de Vitry, Ethan Jodziewicz, Joel Timmons, & Shelby Means, ep. 325 1:12:09

27d ago1:12:09

1:12:09

Maya de Vitry, Ethan Jodziewicz, Joel Timmons, and Shelby Means are on Basic Folk today talking about their new collaborations. Maya produced both Shelby and Joel's debut solo albums this year; Joel and Ethan play in Maya's band; and the two couples (Joel & Shelby are married and Ethan & Maya are partners) are all very close friends. They met in Na…

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Lesa Edwards on Job Search, Leadership, and Building Kinder Workplaces 40:02

1M ago40:02

40:02

In this episode of Our Future Is Kind, Michael welcomes Lesa Edwards, certified executive coach, master resume writer, and host of The Exclusive Career Coach and The Exclusive Career Podcast. With warmth, clarity, and humor, Lesa shares her approach to transforming careers through intentionality, emotional intelligence, and setting healthy boundari…

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Halima Gosai Hussain & Giles Goddard - Two Faith Traditions, One Journey Toward Love and Justice (N351) 1:23:21

1M ago1:23:21

1:23:21

Halima Gosai Hussein is the former chair of the Inclusive Mosque Initiative. Giles Goddard is an Anglican priest and author of Generous Faith. On paper, their backgrounds could hardly be more different. But their paths converged through a shared commitment to inclusion — Giles in the work of building an open and affirming church, Halima through her…

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Paul Brady on Tina Turner, Irish Music and Not Being Too Famous, ep. 324 54:33

1M ago54:33

54:33

Bob Dylan once called Paul Brady a "secret hero" and meant it as a compliment. The Irish songwriting legend has not been bothered by the fact that his profile has not risen as high as some of his peers. Starting off in the world of traditional Irish music, Brady spent time in the hugely influential Irish group Planxty until they disbanded in 1975. …

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The ROI of Kindness Brian Biro on Leadership and Breakthroughs 52:21

1M ago52:21

52:21

Michael sits down with America’s Breakthrough Speaker, Brian Biro for a high-energy conversation on transformational leadership, the science and strategy behind kindness, and how humility and gratitude can elevate individuals and organizations alike. Brian shares the four W’s that turned a struggling hospital unit into a model of excellence, his vi…

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Everyone Has a Friend in Joe K. Walsh, ep. 323 49:59

1M ago49:59

49:59

Originally from northern Minnesota, Joe K. Walsh grew up in Duluth and became enthralled with the mandolin (his primary focus, currently) after hearing the first David Grisman Quintet record. His dad got the young Joe his own mando. He ended up getting very serious about the instrument and found himself studying at Berklee College of Music in Bosto…

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Brian McLaren - Spirituality at the End of the World (N350) 1:27:05

2M ago1:27:05

1:27:05

In this episode, Tim chats with author and activist Brian McLaren about his new novel The Last Voyage, a provocative and emotionally rich exploration of what might happen when the powerful elite try to escape a dying Earth and build a new civilisation elsewhere. Drawing on decades of theological reflection and his recent work on collapse and ecolog…

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How Joy Can Heal the World Shari Alyse on Truth, Presence and Kindness 36:47

2M ago36:47

36:47

What if joy isn't something you find, but something you practice? In this uplifting episode, Michael welcomes Shari Alyse—TV host, bestselling author, and America's Joy Magnet—to explore the deeper truth behind lasting joy. Shari shares her five pillars of joy (connection to self, others, nature, creativity, and purpose), her daily joy rituals, and…

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Everyone Belongs at the Olive Klug show, ep. 322 52:36

2M ago52:36

52:36

Olive Klug and I (Cindy) recorded this interview in my closet while they were in Portland, Maine to play a show. They stayed along with their band Cori, Haley, and Payton and it was a real pleasure to be around them for a few days. You can tell that Olive is at their best around their band and it is a true collaboration on stage. Shoutout to the wh…

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Everyone is Needed | Dr. Alison Thompson on Volunteering Without Fear 34:10

2M ago34:10

34:10

In this episode, we feature Dr. Alison Thompson, a full-time global humanitarian and founder of Third Wave Volunteers. She shares her remarkable journey from Wall Street and filmmaking to disaster zones around the world. What began as a response to 9/11 became a lifelong mission: to bring light—literally and figuratively—to areas affected by crisis…

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Gina Chavez: From Choir Kid to Latin Grammy Nominee, ep. 321 1:05:37

2M ago1:05:37

1:05:37

New bestie Gina Chavez speaks about her journey in music, her deep love for connecting with people, and the influence of her mixed cultural background on Basic Folk. Her parents are of Mexican and Swiss-German descent. Her father, although second generation Mexican-American, was not raised with Spanish language or any Mexican culture. Gina discusse…

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Kira Austin-Young - Compassion and Complexity: Faith and Reproductive Freedom (N349) 1:28:05

2M ago1:28:05

1:28:05

In this episode, Tim speaks with Episcopal priest and author Kira Austin-Young, about the moral, theological, and pastoral dimensions of abortion. Together, they reflect on the silence in progressive churches, the complexity of personhood, biblical texts often used in the debate, and how Christians might begin to hold space for compassion and moral…

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How Kindness Heals Burnout--Lara Heacock on Leading with Care and Accountability 32:57

2M ago32:57

32:57

What if being kind could save you from burnout—and help you lead better? In this episode, Michael sits down with Lara Heacock, a leadership coach who fuses kindness and accountability to help people show up more fully at work and at home. Lara shares her personal journey through burnout, the healing power of micro-kindnesses, and how therapy, self-…

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Tony Kamel Believes in Life and You Should Too, ep. 320 41:34

2M ago41:34

41:34

You may recognize the voice, face, and vibe of wonderful human being Tony Kamel from his acclaimed bluegrass group, Wood & Wire. But Tony is on Basic Folk today to talk about his wonderful solo albums, including his latest, 'We're All Gonna Live.' The album, which just came out, is a realist-optimist's guide to navigating a complex and often heartb…

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Nikki Groom: Leading with Authenticity and Building a Kinder Future 33:58

2M ago33:58

33:58

In this episode, Michael Neece sits down with Nikki Groom, CEO of Raised Voices, to explore the power of authentic leadership and personal branding for speakers. Nikki shares how showing up as your true self creates deeper connection and impact, and how slowing down to practice curious compassion can transform conflict into understanding. They disc…

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Kora Feder is the Future of Political Folk Songwriting, but also Has Too Many Craft Projects, ep. 319 41:53

2M ago41:53

41:53

On this episode of Basic Folk, Kora Feder talks about her new album, 'Some Kind of Truth,' as well as reflecting on the incredible changes and growth she's experienced since we last spoke in February 2020. One of the impacts of the pandemic on her music career was the necessity of exploring other artistic ventures like crafting hats and lino-cuttin…

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Richard Beck - The Joy of Moving Beyond Yourself (N348) 1:41:29

3M ago1:41:29

1:41:29

In this episode, Tim chats with psychologist and theologian Richard Beck about his book The Shape of Joy, which explores the idea that much of modern misery stems from a life turned inward—and that joy comes when we shift our attention beyond ourselves. Drawing on ancient theology, modern psychology, and lived experience, Richard challenges the dom…

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Dina Meyers Explores Justice, Equity, and Kindness in Live Entertainment 45:03

3M ago45:03

45:03

Dina Meyers Explores Justice, Equity, and Kindness in Live Entertainment | #LiveEntertainment In this episode, Michael Neece welcomes Dina Meyers, a live entertainment expert who shares insights on kindness and respect in a challenging industry. She highlights honoring all roles and building trust through kindness. Dina discusses advocating for her…

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Tami Neilson: On Taking Wynonna's Call, Her Scary Near-Death Experience, and Willie Nelson, ep. 318 1:13:32

3M ago1:13:32

1:13:32

In recent years, Tami Neilson has been learning to carry both great joy and great sorrow simultaneously. The New Zealand-based, Canada-born powerhouse's new album, 'Neon Cowgirl,' is named after the towering electric figure on a sign that's overlooked Broadway in Nashville, watching over Tami's career since she was 16 years old. The songs were born…

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Reclaim Your Courage: Kindness & Self-Forgiveness with Brendan Bernat 41:06

3M ago41:06

41:06

In this episode of Our Future is Kind Podcast, Michael Neece welcomes Brendan Bernat, a program manager, writer, speaker, and financial association professional with over two decades of experience. Brendan shares his heartfelt insights on kindness, leadership, and the courage it takes to build better workplaces and communities. He reflects on his j…

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Indigo Girls: Activism Through Fashion and Community Through Food (REISSUE), ep. 317 57:13

3M ago57:13

57:13

(Editor’s Note: Welcome to our Reissue series! For the past several weeks, Basic Folk has been digging back into the archives and reposting some of our favorite episodes alongside new introductions commenting on what it’s like to listen back. This is our last Reissue for now, so please enjoy! This episode featuring separate interviews with The Indi…

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Trans Parent: A Dad Talks About his Daughter and How Curiosity and Compassion Win Every Time 32:46

3M ago32:46

32:46

Trans Parent: A Dad Talks about his Daughter and how Curiosity & Compassion Win Every Time Michael G. Neece speaks with Kevin Huntting about being father to a transgender daughter, what he's learned, how **not** scary trans people are, and advice to other fathers. Kevin is founder of The Human Summit and Michael is co-founder. Learn more about the …

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How Julie Goldberg Uses Energy Healing to Ignite Kindness and Personal Transformation 47:09

3M ago47:09

47:09

In this episode of Our Future is Kind, host Michael G. Neece welcomes energy healer and trauma-informed coach Julie Goldberg. Julie shares her journey in inner child healing, embodiment, and soul-level transformation through ancient healing modalities rooted in the modern mystery school. Discover how kindness is more than niceness—it’s truth in act…

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Joy Oladokun Writes Worship Music for Youth Group Rejects (REISSUE), ep. 316 51:18

3M ago51:18

51:18

(Editor’s Note: Welcome to our Reissue series! For the past several weeks, Basic Folk has been digging back into the archives and reposting some of our favorite episodes alongside new introductions commenting on what it’s like to listen back. Enjoy! This episode featuring Lizzie No interviewing Joy Oladokun, was originally posted on February 24, 20…

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Watchhouse in Conversation with Jacob Sharp (Mipso) (Bonus) 45:55

3M ago45:55

45:55

(Editor's Note: Oh, WOW! A bonus, surprise episode with Watchhouse? Yes! And it is a treat. We are pleased to have Jacob Sharp of Mipso as our guest host in conversation with his friends Andrew Marlin and Emily Franz of Watchhouse, talking about their new studio album, 'Rituals.' The record was co-produced with Ryan Gustafson of The Dead Tongues. T…

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Joy Brooks - Faith’s Shadow Side: Facing Spiritual Bypassing (N347) 1:32:09

3M ago1:32:09

1:32:09

In this episode, we speak with therapist Joy Brooks about spiritual bypassing—how well-meaning spiritual beliefs and practices can sometimes mask or avoid the difficult emotions and wounds we all carry. Drawing on psychology, contemplative traditions, and Joy’s own journey out of charismatic Christianity, the conversation uncovers why confronting p…

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Space Kindness: Exploring the American Space Program w/Emily Carney & Bruce McCandless III 38:08

3M ago38:08

38:08

Join host Michael G. Neece for a fascinating conversation with space historians and authors Emily Carney and Bruce McCandless III about their new book Starbound: A Beginner's Guide to the American Space Program. Dive into stories from early rocketry to bold future predictions, including insights on the “overview effect” astronauts experience and ho…

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Chris Thile: Calvin and Hobbes, Classical Music, and Curiosity (REISSUE), ep. 315 1:21:20

3M ago1:21:20

1:21:20

(Editor’s Note: Welcome to our Reissue series! For the next several weeks, Basic Folk is digging back into the archives and reposting some of our favorite episodes alongside new introductions commenting on what it’s like to listen back. Enjoy! This episode featuring Cindy Howes interviewing Chris Thile was originally posted on September 9, 2021 aft…

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Dar Williams: Music was Decided for Me (REISSUE), ep. 314 1:03:07

3M ago1:03:07

1:03:07

(Editor’s Note: Welcome to our Reissue series! For the next several weeks, Basic Folk is digging into the archives and reposting some of our favorite episodes alongside new introductions commenting on what it’s like to listen back. This episode featuring Lizzie No interviewing Dar Williams originally posted on October 14, 2021. Enjoy!) Dar Williams…

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Rowan Williams - Christianity After Certainty (N346) 1:35:57

4M ago1:35:57

1:35:57

In this episode, we speak with former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams about his vision of faith as attentiveness, not answers — a path not of mastery, but of mystery. Drawing on themes from his book Discovering Christianity, Rowan reflects on the difference between faith and toxic religion, and explores how trust, not certainty, might be th…

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Belonging Starts with Listening: Bernadette Smith on Inclusive Leadership & Courage 40:46

4M ago40:46

40:46

Belonging Starts with Listening: Bernadette Smith on Inclusive Leadership & Courage | #leadership What if creating a more inclusive workplace started with just listening? In this powerful episode of Our Future is Kind, Michael interviews Bernadette Smith—CEO of the Inclusive 360° consulting firm, TEDx speaker, and champion for inclusive leadership.…

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John Hiatt is Actually Not Scared to Talk about His Feelings (REISSUE), ep. 313 51:06

4M ago51:06

51:06

(Editor’s Note: Welcome to our Reissue series! For the next several weeks, Basic Folk is digging back into the archives and reposting some of our favorite episodes alongside new introductions commenting on what it’s like to listen back. Enjoy!) This episode featuring Cindy Howes interviewing John Hiatt originally posted on August 5, 2021. In 2021, …

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Anaïs Mitchell: 2019 Pre-Broadway interview on Hadestown, Lamb Rearing, and Untangling Third Wave Feminism (REISSUE), ep. 312 51:22

4M ago51:22

51:22

(Editor’s Note: Welcome to our Reissue series! For the next several weeks, Basic Folk is digging back into the archives and reposting some of our favorite episodes alongside new introductions commenting on what it’s like to listen back. Enjoy!) Listening back, I feel like this 2018 interview with Anaïs Mitchell holds up. Originally published on Jan…

Rowan And Joy Podcasts