Everyday Thin Places

Ring the Bell with Jack Fritz

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0400

Radio personality, podcast host, and author, Jack Fritz was kind enough to sit down with us to talk about all things Philadelphia Phillies! There were some GREAT moments including "Get these dads a ring!", a conversation on Phillies Fan Groups, and how the Phillies' winning (or losing) seasons inform generational expectations. Be listening for: Rachael finding other Phillies fans in the wild, generosity vs gatekeeping of Phillies fans, and how winning creates nice Philadelphians (as well as the ripple effect beyond just nice Philadelphians).

Make sure to pick up Jack's book, Ring the Bell: How the Philadelphia Phillies Built Baseball's Best Fan Base.

Give generously to the Darren Daulton Foundation.

Listen to the High Hopes Podcast.

Tune into Jack on the radio.

Support the show by "buying us a coffee"!

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From race speed to "Rich Speed" with Rich Speeney

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this inspiring and insight-packed episode, Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso explore themes of creativity, family, disruptions, health, resetting, and slowing down with Pennsylvania-based entrepreneur, Rich Speeney.

The conversation covers one of Rich's most challenging and surprising experiences of his life: mold exposure, which caused severe health challenges and led to starting over completely. Rich and his wife sold their house, got rid of all of their belongings, and moved in with Rich's parents. This experience has changed everything and has forced Rich to slow down to "Rich Speed".

Rich delivers a transparent and inspiring look at accepting reality while clinging to hope - and how staying curious and community-focused keeps him believing in 100% recovery.

This episode delivers clarity, honesty, and encouragement.

Resources

Visit the official Wednesday Night Pizza Club website.
Be generous on behalf of Rich and support Charity Water.

Hosts: Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso

Guest: Rich Speeney

CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:
Official Website
Donate

A Charming Third Time for her 50th Year with Marla Taviano

Mon, 12 May 2025 12:00:00 -0400

For the first time on the podcast, Rachael and Elizabeth are interviewing a third-time-guest! We're joined by author, speaker, and friend, Marla Taviano, who is on a quest to be on 50 podcasts in her 50th year. Marla tells us all about her experiences making goal lists and achieving some interesting milestones (52 zoos in 52 weeks!). Then, she shares about her love of books and her journey to read more books by people of color. This episode is your permission slip to let go of perfectionism and start pursuing the things that bring you joy.

Whether you're trying to visit 52 zoos in 52 weeks, or hoping to be on 50 podcasts in your 50th year, Marla's energy, honesty, and joy will leave you inspired.

Subscribe to Marla's substack to read Marla's letters to her past self.

Tune in now to find out all of this and more and be sure to subscribe!

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CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:

Official Website

HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE:

Donate to our ongoing expenses.

Somatic Practices with Jim Donnelly

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 15:00:00 -0400

Today's episode of "Everyday Thin Places" is all about somatic experiencing! We kick off the episode with an introduction to Jim Donnelly and his path toward healing through somatic work and follow up with the role somatic work plays in addressing trauma. Then we hear from Jim about the process of becoming reacquainted with his body's sensations and how it changed his relationship with his body. Plus, we explore the connection between somatic work and the Enneagram. Tune in now to hear all this and more and be sure to subscribe!

Jim mentioned: Waking the Tiger
Jim would love you to be generous with the Center for Action and Contemplation

Rest is Resistance: A conversation about (but not featuring) Tricia Hersey

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 14:00:00 -0500

Tricia Hersey has been such an inspiration in our own lives, and having her on the podcast would be an absolute dream...but Tricia is protective of her time and really walks the walk of resting. So, we dedicate this episode to Tricia.

In this episode, Rachael and Elizabeth are going to be chatting about everything from creating space for rest, the impact of rest, and rest as personal, spiritual, and political practice.

Thank you for listening! Follow Everyday Thin Places on Instagram.

Support this podcast: Buy Everyday Thin Places a Coffee. ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces - Ko-fi ❤️ Where creators get support from fans through donations, memberships, shop sales and more! The original 'Buy Me a Coffee' Page.

REPLAY: Special Episode: Philly Sports Fanaticism as a Thin Place featuring Erik Johanson

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 19:00:00 -0500

We first aired this episode 2 years ago when the Philadelphia Eagles were preparing to meet the Kansas City Chiefs at the Super Bowl. With a rematch scheduled this Sunday, we figured a replay of one of our favorite episodes was in order.

From 2023 - Joining us for the first time is Erik Johanson, Philadelphia sports fanatic. In the last 5 months, Philly fans have gotten quite a bit of excitement with both the Phillies and the Eagles competing in championship games. We talk to Erik about how his love for Phladelphia and it's sports teams developed, and how it has become a thin place for him. And we explore one more important piece of Erik's story: his complicated relationship with his father and where Erik is left after his father's death last summer.

Celebrating Imbolc - we are halfway to Spring!

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0500

Rachael and Elizabeth discuss their *latest* update before diving into the timely topic of Imbolc. We talk about aligning our energy with the wheel of the year, how people have marked transitions through generations (think bonfires, planning for harvests, and slowly setting intentions), and Elizabeth shares a personal story about her sheep farm experience (spoiler alert: baby lambs can't control their bladders).

And, of course, we get into some suggestions for listeners who want to mark Imbolc in their own lives!

Tune in now to hear all this and more, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Hosts: Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso

Suggest new guests/topics for the podcast at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com

Connect with Rachael and Elizabeth:

@everydaythinplaces

Everydaythinplaces.com

REPLAY: Trea Turner and The Rabbit Effect

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Another October, another sad ending for Philadelphia Sports fans.

BUT. We were given a sweet consolation on 10/18 when Netflix released a short documentary - "The Turnaround." This 25 minute film, produced by Barack and Michelle Obama, digs deeper into the story of the man who inspired the country's most notoriously brutal sports fans to pick someone up when they were down.

Rachael & Elizabeth shared this story last October and think that you should both give this episode a re-listen, and check out The Turnaround on Netflix so that you can revel in and respond to the power of kindness and compassion.

REPLAY: Art, Music and Light with Dan Martin and Michael Biello

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 14:00:00 -0400

We’re releasing this magical episode again to remind our steady listeners and to engage our new listeners around the amazing songs and monologues we call Elderland.

When this episode was initially published, things were looking good and we thought we were on our way to a 2023 presentation of Elderland, but we encountered so many obstacles along the way that a year has passed and it hasn't happened yet...but it WILL!

Dan Martin and Michael Biello are committed to creating something beautiful to share with the world but we need your help! We are fundraising for the project and we could really use all hands on deck!

Here’s the link to making contributions to ELDERLAND via the non-profit umbrella,

Fractured Atlas: https://fundraising.fracturedatlas.org/elderland

Enjoy this episode, and then would you please share share share?!

With so much gratitude,

Rachael and Elizabeth

Teaching is Emotional with Diane Manser

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0400

Slowly but surely making our way back into the podcast feed! Diane Manser is here to talk about being a highschool teacher and an author of the new book, I Didn't Sign Up For This: One Teacher's Journey Through Emotional Fatigue To Personal Empowerment.

Diane shares how her debut book came to be and what her goals are for who it will reach now that it's out in the world. What causes pain and difficulty in teaching? How can teachers recognize it and make changes before they burnout? Whether you're a teacher or you have teachers in your life, you'll learn about how teaching is not just a content profession, but it's also an emotional profession, and that knowledge can totally change our perspectives.

Hosts: Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso

Guest: Diane Manser

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Reach Rachael and Elizabeth at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com

Grandmother Stars, Mother Earth, Auntie Moon

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0400

We're celebrating a seven year plan coming together! Ever dreamt of seeing a solar eclipse in totality? Well, buckle up because Elizabeth and her whole family traveled to northeast Ohio and got to see a gorgeous day complete with 2024's solar eclipse.

Join us as we share our favorite things about the sun, the moon, and the stars. Imagine experiencing a 100% total solar eclipse. Elizabeth experienced it and talking about it brings tears to her eyes. If Rachael's still in South Florida in 20 years, let's all meet up for the path of totality!

Thanks for listening!
Follow Everyday Thin Places on Instagram.

Support this podcast: https://www.everydaythinplaces.com/donate.html

We're Still Here!

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0400

We're so excited for another Everyday Thin Places episode after quite a while away! We chat about our energy coming back as we move from winter to spring. We're diving deep into all things spring! The ladies discuss Elizabeth's spring plans of the Broad Street Run, throwing the windows open, spring cleaning on Leap Day, as well as Rachael's "Elderland" update, the relativity of seasons, and connecting with Mother Nature.

We're feeling a little rusty as we come out of our winter hibernation, but we are still here!

Follow us on Instagram @everydaythinplaces. Follow Rachael on Instagram @Rae_rae_s and Elizabeth @mamabirdbirth.

Reach us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

Where'd You Park Your Spaceship?: An Interplanetary Tale of Love, Loss, and Bread by Rob Bell

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso return with guest Rob Bell to discuss Rob's new book, "Where'd You Park Your Spaceship?". Starting with a discussion about this being a departure from Rob's previous works of nonfiction, we assure you that this sci-fi fiction book is very "Rob Bell". We're pretty sure Rob just became best friends with all of his readers as he weaves a story about other planets that helps us all to better understand Rob Bell the friend. We talk about our expectations of the book vs what our thoughts were while reading and what the process was like for Rob while he was writing it. This is a good one, friends. We're glad you're here.

Follow us on Tnstagram @everydaythinplaces.
Follow Rachael on Instagram @rae_rae_s
and Elizabeth @reclaimingRAPTURE

Trea Turner and The Rabbit Effect

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 16:00:00 -0400

It's Red October in Philadelphia, and Phillies fever is spreading. Symptoms include yelling, cheering, and . . . kindness? Elizabeth has been gushing to Rachael about Phillie's short stop Trea Turner for weeks now, so it's only right that we share his story with our listeners and invite you all to jump on the bandwagon of postseason baseball and truly living. But we're not just talking baseball - we're talking about rabbits, cholesterol, kindness, the Green House model of nursing care and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Check out the moment that Elizabeth can't recount without tearing up

Read about The Rabbit Effect

Learn more about Green House Nursing Homes

Donate to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Send a $7 gift to the V Foundation in honor of Trea Turner

Psychedeladoula: Nicki Cowan

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso interview Nicki Cowan, psychotherapist, end-of-life doula, and co-founder of the Philly Death Doula Collective. In this special episode, Nicki discusses awe, existential intensity, and the greater-than-human world.
It was very interesting for us to learn more about Nicki's perspective. In this episode we cover Nicki's apprenticeship in Botswana, her post-graduate training, how she found herself in Philadelphia, and her time in the Peruvian Amazon and the clarity that she received there.

Follow Nicki and her colleagues on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/salttrailsphilly/?hl=en
Support and Celebrate Nicki at: Psychedelic Liberation Training
The Collective for Radical Death Studies
Psychedelic Liberation Coll
Connect with Rachael and Elizabeth: everydaythinplaces.com
Thank you for supporting this show by buying us a cup of coffee. Learn more: https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces
Reach Rachae and Elizabeth at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com

Healing and Learning in the Desert with Kay Bruner

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth are back with Kay Bruner. They start the episode with some quick life updates from Kay, then begin talking about Kay's favorite aspects of life in the desert, "Agave Watch", and learning how to be okay with letting go.

Featuring:

Reach Rachael and Elizabeth - everydaythinplaces@gmail.com

Contribute to the show at https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Neighbors With No Doors featuring Josiah Haken

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 02:00:00 -0400

On this episode, our new friend Josiah Haken, CEO of City Relief in NYC shares about serving those stuggling with housing insecurity and food insecurity. Josiah skillfully walks us through how serving people experiencing homelessness is a thin place and how each of us can offer hospitality to our neighbors regardless of our context.

Mentioned in today's episode:

Thanks for listening!

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Reach Rachael and Elizabeth at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com

Contribute to the show at https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Art, Music, and Light with Dan Martin and Michael Biello

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso are joined by life partners and creative collaborators, Dan Martin and Michael Biello to discuss telling stories through art, music, and light.
Dan and Michael skillfully walk us through how they create thin places for audiences all over the world and how they're currently working with Rachael and making new songs about growing older.
They remind us that when a piece of art is right, it doesn't have to be forced.
You don't want to miss this episode, and you'll most definitely want to share it with anyone who appreciates creativity and art.

To be inspired by Dan and Michael's art, go to https://biellomartin.com/
https://michaelbiello.com/
https://amazingqueersongbook.com/
https://www.instagram.com/biello.martin.songbook/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ztPgdCXXQQ

To be generous on Dan and Michael's behalf, please find ways to contirubute to artists and their process, and to financially contribute to their friend and neighbor, Sofie, please visit https://www.teamsofie.org/

Be sure to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.
Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Instagram: @everydaythinplaces
Email: everydaythinplaces@gmail.com

Come on in, the water's fine! - Elizabeth's Year of Truly Living

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 02:00:00 -0400

After being coy for a while, on this episode, Elizabeth finally shares what has kept her busy most summers, and what's been keeping her busy this year.

Featuring:

human milk oligosaccharides
finally welcoming a baby into the world without a mask!
https://www.facebook.com/center.nonreligious.spirituality/
reclaiming and redefining "bedlum" with the Philadelphia Phillies
Better Call Saul
Midnight Mass on Netflix
The Woodlands Cemetery in West Philadelphia

Follow Elizabeth's most recent social media at https://www.instagram.com/yourdeconversiondoula/ and https://www.instagram.com/reclaimingrapture/

Reach Rachael and Elizabeth at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com

Contribute to the show at https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Where Possibility Plays - Rachael's Year of Truly Living

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso reflect on this past year and catch up on what Rachael's been doing this year.

Featuring:

"season" in south Florida and how locals enjoy summertime
being challenged professionally
buying a condo on the water in "the Venice of America" and feeling "home"
therapy
https://e2mfitness.com/
a sneak peek of our next episode (SPOILER ALERT: there's an amazing creative project on the way!)

Find us on Instagram: @everydaythinplaces

Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Cheers to three years! Happy Third Anniversary Everyday Thin Places!

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 02:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Rachael and Elizabeth talk through the story of calling this episode an "anniversary" and we talk about what to expect in the future from Everyday Thin Places. Thank you for listening and letting us celebrate this special occasion!

Special Episode: Philly Sports Fanaticism as a Thin Place featuring Erik Johanson

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0500

In this very special episode, it's time for the Super Bowl. Joining us for the first time is Erik Johanson, Philadelphia sports fanatic. In the last 5 months, Philly fans have gotten quite a bit of excitement with both the Phillies and the Eagles competing in championship games. We talk to Erik about how his love for Phladelphia and it's sports teams developed, and how it has become a thin place for him. And we explore one more important piece of Erik's story: his complicated relationship with his father and where Erik is left after his father's death last summer.
Thank you for supporting this show and stay tuned for a whole new season coming soon.

Happy (2nd) Birthday, Everyday Thin Places!

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth react to Everyday Thin Places turning two years old, before reflecting on the amazing guests we have had the privilege to host. Plus, what’s next for Everyday Thin Places?!

As promised, click here to read about the astounding good news announced this week that is a game changer in cancer research.

The Thin Places that Teachers Create

Mon, 23 May 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Elizabeth has been keeping busy making teacher appreciation gifts, and Rachael has been watching her teacher friends on social media as they wrap up the school year. It feels like a great time to talk about teachers and the impact the have made on our lives.

•To share a teacher/student story for a future episode, reach us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com

•Follow the podcast on Instagram (@Everydaythinplaces).

Unbelieve with Marla Taviano

Mon, 09 May 2022 02:00:00 -0400

This is a second episode with Marla Taviano because she HAS A NEW BOOK in the world! We explore the poetry within "Unbelieve - Poems on the Journey to Becoming a Heretic". From "I was wrong" to "God Loves Everyone" to "growing up evangelical" to "chirp chirp", every poem in this new book is eye-opening and relatable and honest and authentic.

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Silence - Let's talk about it!

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth record an actual conversation about silence! In their conversation, Rachael discusses her thoughts on how silence can be used as a weapon. Plus, Elizabeth talks about how she's gotten curious and open to silence. SPOILER: She's starting to offer spiritual direction and is using silence as a tool.

Don't forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

You can email the podcast at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.
Visit https://www.everydaythinplaces.com/ for more information on the show.
Follow the podcast on Instagram.

Silence as a Thin Place

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 02:00:00 -0400

Nope, this isn't a glitch or a mistake.

We'll be back to talk about silence in our next episode.

But for today we invite you to take 7 minutes of silence for yourself.

Think of this as an experiment.
As a treat.
As an opportunity to experience an everyday thin place.

Because sometimes there aren't words.
Because sometimes silence is the friend that you need.
Because there is an inner wisdom that you may not be able to hear until you turn down the noise.
Because silence can be a sacred, thin place.

Building a Blended Family featuring Angela Dobryznski

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso are joined by Angela Dobrynski, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Grief Specialist. While Angela has a wealth of professional experience in the world of grief and loss, this conversation focuses on her own personal story of grief, loss and the surprises that led to her building the family that she has today.

You can connect with Angela on her website angeladora.org or follow her on Facebook.

Follow Everyday Thin Places on Instagram to check out the images that go along with this episode.

Buy us a cup of coffee to help us keep making this podcast and to receive and invitation to our private Facebook community.

Advance

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth talk all about ADVANCING (most notably, the Battle of Little Round Top, chemotherapy, and athletic training). Also, Elizabeth shares about an advance she received in order to help her neighbors and her family.

Everyday Thin Places appreciates its supporters! Want to support? Buy us a coffee! Sign up: https://www.everydaythinplaces.com/donate.html

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Retreat

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 02:00:00 -0500

On this very special edition of "Everyday Thin Places", it's finally time for our first ever Everyday Thin Places RETREAT!!!!! We discuss our differing opinions on taking baths, our motivations for being in water, what we think about retreat, and some ideas for small everyday opportunities for retreats before we make the big announcement that we're hosting a retreat!

To register for our upcoming virtual retreat on Saturday, May 14, make sure to head to www.everydaythinplaces.com/retreat

To reach us, you can email the podcast at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

Follow the podcast on Instagram.

Oruguitas y Mariposas

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 02:00:00 -0500

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso break down the everyday thin places we experienced in the Disney film, Encanto. Encanto is amazing, and if you haven't seen it yet, do yourself a favor and go watch this movie on Disney+. We will share some spoilers in this episode, but the movie is still worth watching even if it's been "spoiled". And of course, because this IS Everyday Thin Places, we talk about birth and death and the magic and gifts that these universal experiences are. Encanto is not just for children or people who love children. It's for everyone, and it's a great learning tool especially if you are looking to explore family dynamics, transitions, mystery, and healing.

Everyday Thin Places is powered by supporters like you! To keep all of our Everyday Thin Places content ad-free, consider buying us a cup of coffee to keep us going.

Follow along on the "Everyday Thin Places" Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydaythinplaces/

As always, reach us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

Your Chrysalis with Melissa Jill Clark

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 02:00:00 -0500

Life Coach, Melissa Jill Clark joins us on the Everyday Thin Places podcast to talk about having all we need within us now, yoga as embodied prayer, and Melissa's poem that was recently published in book form: Your Chrysalis: A Message of Hope for End of Life.
We really talk about everything. Yoga? Yes. Fulfilling our legacies? Obviously. Birth and death? Of course.
Everyday Thin Places is powered by listeners like you! To keep all our Everyday Thin Places content ad-free, consider buying us a cup of coffee to keep us going.
Follow along on the "Everyday Thin Places" Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydaythinplaces/
As always, reach us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

Stories for Community-building featuring Matt Gorkos

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 02:00:00 -0500

Today on the podcast, hosts Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso talk with Philadelphia-area-based pastor and author, Matt Gorkos. Matt has built Storied Church Ministry Consulting , focused on cultivating connections through stories. One of his latest efforts: The Storied Church: A Strategy for Congregational Renewal explores the power of a good story and how harnessing that power can be impactful in the church and beyond.

Matt mentions a children’s book series written by Kobi Yamada with beautiful illustrations by Mae Besom. The titles are “What Do You Do With a Problem?” “What Do You Do With An Idea?” And “What Do You Do With A Chance?”

Matt would love to point listeners to the Human Library Project.

Also mentioned in this episode: What is God Like? by Rachel Held Evans and Matthew Paul Turner.

Happy Old Year, Happy New Year! (Again!)

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 02:00:00 -0500

Today on the podcast we go down memory lane - 2021 has been another doozy. We reflect on our hopefulness and cautious optimism last year at this time. Rachael reflects on the struggles that existed in 2021 as well as her ideas of how life would be once vaccines became available, and then Elizabeth shares her resolution that she made last year and that she's carrying into 2022. Thanks for listening!

To reach us, you can email the podcast at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com
Follow the podcast on Instagram.

Rachael's Recent Thin Places

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0500

In this special mini episode, Elizabeth interviews Rachael about the last six months of living back in her home state of Florida! Rachael talks about her latest projects and how this new lifestyle has become a thin place for her. Thanks for listening!

Contribute to the show at https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces.
Email us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

Elizabeth's Latest Thin Places

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0500

On this week's episode, Elizabeth Varaso shares about her latest thin place endeavor.

Featuring:

How she went from being the proud owner of 25 fragrance oils to owning 122 fragrance oils.
Why she receives 55 pound bags of salt delivered to her home regularly.
How Sharon Weiss fits into all of this.

Everyday Thin Places is powered by subscribers like you! To keep all of our Everyday Thin Places content free and ad-free, consider buying us a cup of coffee to keep us going.

Follow along with Everyday Thin Places on Instagram.

As always, reach us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

Miniature Thin Places

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Rachael and Elizabeth celebrate miniature things. Elizabeth shares about her household's delight in the thin places of miniature things and Rachael talks (again) about her love of small dogs. Then, we talk about the power of miniature things working their ways into places that larger things cannot: little things can have huge impacts.

You can email the podcast at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

Follow the podcast on Instagram.

REPLAY (Episode 29): Hanukkah featuring Dr. Liam Robins

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Just in time, it's the last night of Hanukkah and so we are replaying this episode from last year.

In this episode, Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso are joined by Dr. Liam Robins to discuss Hanukkah, embracing Judaism as an adult, the "thin place" experience of lighting the Hanukkah candles, and more.

Buy us a cup of coffee:

https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Cycle of Lives featuring David Richman

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 02:00:00 -0500

This week Rachael and Elizabeth are hosting a conversation with David Richman, author of the book Cycle of Lives: 15 People's stories, 5,000 miles and a Journey through the Emotional Chaos of Cancer.

After losing his sister June to cancer, David was inspired to push the limits of what his body was capable of, and to engage his heart and mind with the emotional journey of those who have been diagnosed with cancer, their loved ones and the medical professionals who treat them.

You can find out more about David and his book as well as purchase Cycle of Lives at his website: david-richman.com You can also follow Cycle of Lives on Facebook.

All of the proceeds from the book go to a collection of cancer research and treatment facilities, but in particular David would encourage you to give a gift to the Moffitt Cancer Center in Florida on behalf of Rachael.

As always, we encourage you to rate and review Everyday Thin Places on your podcast platform of choice. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram and check out everydaythinplaces.com

Like what you hear and want to help us keep it up? Buy us a coffee!

Happy Thanksgiving (& Receiving)!

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Rachael and Elizabeth give thanks for each other, for this podcast, and for our listeners. Plus, we take some time to share how you can help to support the podcast. Everyday Thin PLaces is powered by subscribers like you! To keep all our Everyday Thin Places content ad-free, consider making a donation by buying us a cup of coffee!

To support the podcast financially, visit https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces
To get in touch with us, you can email the podcast at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com
Visit https://www.everydaythinplaces.com/
Follow the podcast on Instagram.

Generosity as a Thin Place

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 02:00:00 -0500

This week, we bring you a conversation about generosity as a thin place.

More than anything, this episode felt like a really fun, yet super meaningful time of reflection.

Featuring:

different motivations for generosity
the spiritual practice of generosity
barriers to generosity
Elizabeth's research into the origins of the word generosity
a challenge to practice generosity this week

Check back to see the still TBD "Brenda's Choice" cause to support.

Also, please, please! Follow Everyday Thin Places: https://www.instagram.com/everydaythinplaces/?hl=en

Everyday Thin Places is powered by generous listeners! To keep all of our Everyday Thin Places content free and accessible to all, consider making a donation to keep us going.

As always, reach us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

Nostalgia as a Thin Place

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 02:00:00 -0500

In celebration of the 65th episode of our podcast, this episode is all about nostalgia (New Kids on the Block, I Love Lucy, Goosebumps, etc.)! We are honored to take you on a nostalgic journey!

To reach us, email everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.
Visit https://www.everydaythinplaces.com/
Follow the podcast on Instagram (@everydaythinplaces).

REPLAY (Episode 22) : Horror Films featuring Jennifer Moorman

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 02:00:00 -0400

Rachel & Elizabeth have referenced this conversation so many times recently that it seemed worthy of a replay! Even with Halloween just having passed, you may still be in the mood for a good horror film, and the insights that film scholar and expert Jennifer Moorman has to offer will have you experiencing, yes, even horror films, as a thin place.

Jen shares about how she developed a love for horror films, how monsters in horror films can help "outsiders" to feel empowered, and the power of the unknown that horror filmmakers tap into in order to scare us.

We also discuss how death and birth are often explored in horror films and how these films can actually comforting and even a thin place when we are feeling anxious.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?

Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee!
www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at
www.everydaythinplaces.com

Activism and Theology as Thin Places featuring Dr. Drew Hart

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso discuss activism and theology as a thin place with Dr. Drew Hart. Drew is a writer and a speaker on topics of justice black theology, Anabaptism, and white supremacy and he follows in a long line of theologists who have done theology on the fly in the midst of struggling with justice and liberation. You’ll want to check out Drew’s books: Trouble I’ve Seen: Changing the Way the Church Views Racism and Who Will Be A Witness? Igniting Activism for God’s Justice, Love, and Deliverance.

Mentioned on the show:

Inverse Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inverse-podcast/id1358332600
Common Hymnal: https://commonhymnal.com/
Messonghi Trust: https://www.patreon.com/msingitrust

Curiosity as a Thin Place

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso check in with honesty, authenticity, and humor about curiosity as a thin place. We begin by talking about Elizabeth's far-fetched husband and his skeptical nature versus Elizabeth's curious nature. After talking through all the possible ways to view the world, Rachael and Elizabeth land on a good healthy way to go through life.

Everyday Thin Places is powered by subscribers like you! To keep all of our Everyday Thin Places content free and accessible to all, consider making a donation by "buying us a coffee" to keep us going.

Follow along on the Everyday Thin Places Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydaythinplaces/

As always, reach us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com

Changing Your Mind with Halley Kim

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 02:00:00 -0400

It's our first repeat guest!

This time last year Halley Kim joined us to talk about the importance of Birth Stories. At the time, she had a secret that only a handful of people in her life knew about. But today, Halley is sharing freely about what she once believed, what she believes now, and how we can compassionately usher people towards changing their minds.

You can find Halley on Instagram as @halley.kim_ and Facebook as Halley_Kim
One day she may even return to writing on her blog that you can find at halleykim.com
In the meantime she's preaching sermons that you can find on YouTube - like this one

Resources mentioned in this episode:

PBS Documentary: Vaccines - Calling The Shots

On Immunity: An Inoculation by Eula Biss

This Podcast Will Kill You

Vaccines Did Not Cause Rachel's Autism: My Journey as a Vaccine Scientist, Pediatrician and Autism Dad by Peter Hotez

Please consider a donation to support the work of Voices for Vaccines

The Joy of Pets

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso discuss what pets have to teach us about birth and death, and truly living. Understanding our personal relationships with pets is an important part of understanding ourselves. We support our life's journey when we embrace caregiving, whether it be another person or an animal.

You can email the podcast at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.
Visit everydaythinplaces.com .
Follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook.
Contribute to the show at https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces.

Don't forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Check out the Don't You Want Me organization!

Truly Living with Autism featuring Eileen Shaklee

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso enjoy a conversation with Eileen Shaklee, aka "Mama Fry," who blogs at "Autism With A Side of Fries." Eileen first began blogging about life with her french-fry-loving Autistic son 9 years ago, and has built an online community where the unique joys and challenges of living with Autism can be shared.

You can find Eileen's blog at Autism With a Side of Fries, or else follow her on Facebook or Instagram.

Please consider giving generously to the Monmouth Ocean Foundation for Children

Building a Family Through Infertility with Tara McAlonan

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso have the privilege of talking through how Tara McAlonan's family has come to be, challenge by challenge, heartbreak by heartbreak and how it all led to the adoption of Cade Francis. We are delighted to share this with you!

Resources:
Resolve Support Groups

Grief & Creativity

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we interview Elizabeth's first Philadelphia friend, Shera Morris. We have the privilege of talking through how creativity helped her to find thin places even when going through grief. We are delighted to share this conversation with you!

http://www.everydaythinplaces.com

Pathways to Housing PA
Project Home

A New Season

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0400

In this week's episode we're celebrating being back to regular podcasting! Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso start the podcast off with a recap of the thin places they experienced over the summer. Then, they share some insight on where the podcast is headed in the coming weeks and months.

Mentioned in this episode: In the Heights
Local 44
Campfire Stories
BLTs
Bachelor in Paradise
Pizzacraft
Higher Learning Podcast

You can email the podcast at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.
Visit everydaythinplaces.com and follow the podcast on Instagram @everydaythinplaces.

REPLAY (Episode 21): Everything is Spiritual with Rob Bell

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 02:00:00 -0400

One more week of Summer break before new episodes return on September 6th, and we're replaying our most downloaded episode of 2020.

Author, speaker and podcaster Rob Bell joins us to talk about his book, "Everything is Spiritual," the power of well-asked questions, and what is giving him hope right now. We begin by talking about the power of a good ending. Then we talk about everything from asking good questions, to the unexpected twists and turns of life, to human reproduction and so much more.

Like what you hear and want to support this podcast? Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit Rob's website at www.robbell.com

REPLAY (Episode 28): Deconstructing and Reimagining Advent with Kaitlin Shetler

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 02:00:00 -0400

You've heard of "Christmas in July" - how about "Advent in August"?

We'll be back with brand new episodes in a few weeks, but we're rounding out our final two weeks of summer break with our two most downloaded episodes from last year.

In this episode we are joined by poet Kaitlin Shetler to discuss her poem "Sometimes I Wonder," the concept of incarnation, going deeper into the beauty of the Christmas story and so much more.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast? Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit Kaitlin's Facebook Page at Kaitlin Shetler Poetry - Facebook

REPLAY (Episode 11): Ritual

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 01:00:00 -0400

Another replay of a favorite episode for you to enjoy while we enjoy our summer break!

To consider fear and pain, we also had to think about ritual. We hope this week's episode opens up conversations to help us to learn about helpful rituals that we can practice throughout all of life.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

REPLAY (Episode 10): Pain

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 01:00:00 -0400

Another replay of a favorite episode for you to enjoy while we enjoy our summer break!

We've had pain on our minds. After last week's episode about fear, we decided to release a three-episode series on fear, pain, and ritual. We hope this week's episode helps shine a light on the different types of pain that we ourselves have experienced and witnessed.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

REPLAY (Episode 9): Fear

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 02:00:00 -0400

Another replay of a favorite episode for you to enjoy while we enjoy our summer break!

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso dive into the topic of fear, its role and purpose in our lives, and how we can work with our fear in helpful ways.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

REPLAY (Episode 19) : Earth with Christa Barfield of Farmer Jawn Greenhouses

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 01:00:00 -0400

One of the most frequent topics we think about as a birth doula and a hospice chaplain is the topic of the cycle of life, death, and new life. We hope this week's episode about the element of earth with Christa Barfield helps you to understand the heart, intention, and inspiration behind Farmer Jawn Greenhouses, and to have a deeper connection to what the earth teaches us about the life, death, and new life cycle.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

REPLAY (Episode 18) : Water with Keri McGinn of Halcyon Floats

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0400

Enjoy this replay of a favorite episode! In 2014, Keri McGinn opened Halcyon Floats in Philadelphia. It was the first flotation therapy location in Philadelphia, but it quickly gained popularity in the Philadelphia area. Keri joins us to talk about water and how floating can help with stress management, letting go, and even meditating to help us experience thin places.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit the Halcyon Floats website at www.halcyonfloats.com

REPLAY (Episode 17) : Fire with Ilyssa and Dave Kyu, editors of Campfire Stories: Tales from America's National Parks

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0400

In this replay of a favorite episode, Ilyssa and Dave Kyu, authors of Campfire Stories: Tales From America's National Parks are here! Ilyssa and Dave recount their time spent traveling around the US National Parks and reveal how campfires facilitate community, preserve history, and celebrate our shared heritage. Plus, Rachael and Elizabeth share some personal stories of the power of campfires in their own lives.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit the Campfire Stories Book website at www.campfirestoriesbook.com

REPLAY (Episode 16) : Air with Amy Wright Glenn

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0400

In this replay of a favorite episode, Rachael and Elizabeth welcome Amy Wright Glenn to the show! Amy is the founder of the Institute for the Study of Birth, Breath, and Death and the author of Birth, Breath, and Death: Meditations on Motherhood, Chaplaincy, and Life as a Doula and Holding Space: On Loving, Dying, and Letting Go. Amy talks about how air and breath help her to hold space and be present for others in birth, in death, and in life. Amy, Rachael, and Elizabeth also discuss how our own breath is the best teacher on being more present and how Covid-19 has affected our views on breath and the sadness we are all experiencing due to not being able to share breath with others.

Don't forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit the website for The Institute for the Study of Birth Breath and Death's website at www.birthbreathanddeath.com

REPLAY (Episode 15) : 4 Elements

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 02:00:00 -0400

In this replay of one of our favorite episodes, Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso talk about what to expect in their upcoming series about the 4 elements. Rachael and Elizabeth open up about their experiences with each of the 4 elements as they relate to birth and death. Plus, you'll get a brief primer of each of the 4 elements.

Don't forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Buy us a coffee!

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0400

It's summer break! But, we're using this time to recharge. We'll still be releasing content and we would love to partner with you! Would you "buy us a cup of coffee"? Click here to support Everyday Thin Places: https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Happy Birthday, Everyday Thin Places!

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0400

It's our birthday! Everyday Thin Places is one year old and we're celebrating by reflecting on this past year, updating everyone with what is going on now, and dreaming for the future! Help us celebrate our first birthday!

Reiki Energy Healing with Zoe Archer

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Today we are joined by Zoe Archer, Reiki master and yoga guide. In this episode we talk about Zoe's journey toward Reiki. We also use this time to learn about what takes place in a reiki session, we experience a bit of the benefits of Reiki, and the surprise of the role Zoe played in the origin of this very podcast!

More Zoe

The Trevor Project

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Like and subscribe to Everyday Thin Places.

Follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/everydaythinplaces/?hl=en

Cycles, Cicadas & Legacy

Mon, 31 May 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth know a little bit about cicadas and a lot about cycles and legacies. We reminisce about the last time the Magicicadas from Brood X emerged. Plus a poem from chaplain, Julie Prey!

Follow along on the Everyday Thin Places Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydaythinplaces/?hl=en

As always, reach us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

For the Birds

Mon, 24 May 2021 02:00:00 -0400

In this week's episode we explore birds. We open up about the special bird names that hold meaning for us and share our excitement about pleasant encounters with birds. Plus, we reveal what birds can teach us about death.

Don't forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Black & White with Ben Wildflower

Mon, 17 May 2021 01:00:00 -0400

This week we interview Ben Wildflower, printmaker, Kensington resident, and all-around interesting guy. We're excited to share the amazing stories that have led Ben to where he is today. Find him at https://benwildflower.com

Finding Your Herd featuring Marla Taviano

Mon, 10 May 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso visit with the very interesting, Marla Taviano. Marla shares some personal stories of visiting Cambodia, which turned into living in Cambodia, moving back to the United States on the last flight due to Covid, and what life has been like since then.

This episode is for anyone who has been impacted by travel, books, starting something new, or feeling like things are falling apart.

Visit everydaythinplaces.com for information about how to support Marla and how to support this podcast!

Grief Dreams featuring Dr. Joshua Black

Mon, 03 May 2021 01:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth are joined by Dr. Joshua Black, a pioneer and leading researcher in the study of grief dreams. Listen as Dr. Black shares about his own life experiences that gave him the desire to study the intersection of dreaming and grieving, and the fascinating observations he's made about how our dreams can help us through the grieving process.

You can find out more about Dr. Joshua Black, his work and the workshops & courses he offers at https://www.griefdreams.ca

Becoming a Family Through Fostering featuring Kara Sansonetti

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

In this episode, in celebration of many different ways to build a family, we talk with Kara Sansonetti about hopes and dreams deferred, how her family has come to be through fostering a child, and more! If you have fostered children, are wondering how you can help, or are contemplating becoming a foster parent, take a listen to get some insight, encouragement, and inspiration to play some part in investing in children in this powerful way!

http://www.everydaythinplaces.com

Blooming Into Spring

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso discuss blooming and spring...it's what we've been waiting for! The temperatures are warmer, the sun is a little brighter, the days are a little longer!

Don't forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

You can also email the podcast at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

Visit http://everydaythinplaces.com for links to everything we mention on the show.

Follow us on Instagram at @everydaythinplaces.

Detour Guides

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we talk through the detours of life: chosen detours and detours that are thrust upon us. We can have an attitude and a posture and an approach of being present, which will allow us to experience the joy of the journey rather than focusing solely on the destination. We’ll walk through our spiritual questions about detours in life and the signs that we may be directed by along the way. This is a must listen!

Grief and Gratitude with Mari-Carmen Farmer

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

This is already one of our favorite conversations and Mari-Carmen Farmer is now someone we both consider a great friend! Mari-Carmen is a woman who has lived through the ultimate grief of the death of her daughter. Today she discusses her life with her daughter, Caela and her life since Caela’s death. She shares how these experiences continue to inform the work that she does as a midwife.

Don’t forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Support this podcast: https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Letting Go and Leaning In with Paige Chapman of Mama's Wellness Joint

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso talk with Paige Chapman, founder of Mama's Wellness Joint! Together we discuss the process of creating community in a physical space, letting go of that physical space, and leaning into intuition and trusting your gut. Paige shares what she's intuitively learned from building a business and adapting to what the community needs now.

Don't forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Candles for Calm featuring Paris Northcutt of Lady Cimonne Candle Co.

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Small business owner of Lady CIMONNE Candle Company, Paris Northcutt is here. She's making waves in the world of candles and wax melts produced in the United States and made from renewable and sustainable materials grown by American farmers.

Mentioned on this episode:

One Year In: You Are Not Alone

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth share a vulnerable and tender conversation about being one year into the Covid-19 pandemic. This episode is about looking back into the past year to explore normalizing some of the difficult challenges and emotions we have collectively confronted.

Visit https://www.everydaythinplaces.com/donate.html to support this podcast and the community we are building.

Words Create Worlds - The Power of Naming

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Rachael and Elizabeth discuss the power of naming - people, places, things, feelings, ideas, all of it!

Poet, Pastor, Peacemaker featuring Drew Jackson

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Poet, Pastor, and Peacemaker, Drew Jackson joins us to talk about his forthcoming book “God Speaks Through Wombs”. Drew has an amazing ability to reclaim the narratives of scripture through his poetry and talking with him was inspiring and challenging and we are so honored to share our conversation with you!

https://www.djacksonpoetics.com/
https://www.ivpress.com/god-speaks-through-wombs
https://www.madeforpax.org/

Don't forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

http://www.everydaythinplaces.com

Stars with Charlie McLoughlin

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Astronomy hobbyist Charlie McLoughlin is here to talk about his passion for astronomy. We talk through astronomical events and discoveries and ponder the cool stuff happening in the Universe around us.

Down To Earth - Regenerative Organic Agriculture with Jeff Tkach of Rodale Institute

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso discuss regenerative organic agriculture with Jeff Tkach from Rodale Institute. Jeff is Chief Impact Officer for the Rodale Institute and is responsible for expanding Rodale Institute's global influence in healing people and the planet by unlocking the transformational power of regenerative organic agriculture.

When a Lawyer Becomes a Doula with Cathy McCormick

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Former lawyer, and current doula and grandmother, Cathy McCormick swings by to talk about being a self-described "loudmouth", how that characteristic has served her throughout her life, and her transitions from lawyer, to childbirth educator, to doula, to grandmother. Cathy is someone both Elizabeth and Rachael love, and soon you'll love her too.

Margins

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Elizabeth tells Rachael about the deeper meaning behind the margins in her monthly word art. We needed a margin episode before we jumped right back into our interview episodes, so we used this episode to create some margins of our own.

Don't forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

"What's up with Elizabeth's Monthly Word Art?" : a mini episode!

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0500

It's our fourth and final mini-episode for the month of January, and one of our listeners has a questions about one of Elizabeth's monthly rituals. We find out that this podcast may have never come to be if Elizabeth hadn't stumbled upon this spiritual practice!

Click here to check our our show notes to see some examples of the pieces Elizabeth has made, and use the hashtags #everydaythinplaces and #wordart to show us your own!

Enjoying this podcast and want to help us keep up the good work? Buy us a (virtual) cup of coffee at www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Find us on Instagram and Facebook as @everydaythinplaces

Rachael and Elizabeth talk about what's in it for our child-free listeners: a mini episode!

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso discuss some helpful feedback from a child-free listener. We have some ideas for future episodes about all the ways people create family and we're really excited to share those with you in 2021!

We're hosting an imaginary dinner party!

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso discuss an imaginary dinner party with all the guest from every episode of Everyday Thin Places. What will we eat? What will we talk about? How soon can we make this happen?!

The surprises of hosting Everyday Thin Places: a mini-episode!

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0500

In this week's mini-episode we explore the surprises of hosting Everyday Thin Places.

To send us a question for a future mini episode, reach us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com.

Visit http://everydaythinplaces.com for links to everything we mention on the show.

Follow us on Instagram (@everydaythinplaces).

Choose your own adventure and listen to one of our previous episodes that you missed!

Happy Old Year, Happy New Year

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Once upon a time in January 2020 we had visions about making this year meaningful. It may not have looked exactly like what we expected, but it has certainly been a meaningful year. And, 2021 is still ours! This week we talk about saying goodbye to 2020, including some of the specific plans Rachael made at this time last year. We're also talking about the hopes we have for 2021.

Follow Everyday Thin Places on instagram: http://www.instagram.com/everydaythinplaces

Mentioned on this episode!

Disney Dresses and Daisy: http://www.instagram.com/disney_dresses_and_daisy
The Umbrella Academy dance: https://vimeo.com/318687753
Sauerkraut balls: http://rocknes.com

Visit www.everydaythinplaces.com for even more info and buy us a cup of coffee: https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

As always, reach us at everydaythinplaces@gmail.com

Embracing the Darkness

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 03:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we talk through the idea of darkness. Today is the Winter Solstice, and that inspired us to reflect on darkness. Through our conversation, we learned that Elizabeth is a night owl and Rachael is an early bird, and that Elizabeth prefers the dark and Rachael is working on her appreciation of darkness. There is beauty in the darkness and we recognize the privilege of being invited into the darkness.

Buy us a cup of coffee: https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Hanukkah featuring Dr. Liam Robins

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso are joined by Dr. Liam Robins to discuss Hanukkah, embracing Judaism as an adult, the "thin place" experience of lighting the Hanukkah candles, and more.

Buy us a cup of coffee:

https://ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Deconstructing and Reimagining Advent with Kaitlin Shetler

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso are joined by poet Kaitlin Shetler to discuss her poem 'Sometimes I Wonder', the concept of incarnation, going deeper into the beauty of the Christmas story, and so much more.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit Kaitlin's Facebook page at Kaitlin Shetler Poetry - Facebook

Jewelry featuring Michelle Pajak-Reynolds

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

This week, Rachael and Elizabeth take a deep dive into the world of couture jewelry design with Michelle Pajak-Reynolds. We learn how Michelle started making jewelry early in life, how her travels and research inform the designs she creates, and she walks us through the process of how collections come to be from mining her own gemstones to making their way to their forever homes. Michelle designs everything, produces it all, and works with a beautiful team to photograph it all, and she does it in a sustainable way. This is a great listen!

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit Michelle's website at www.michellepajakreynolds.com

Bonus Episode: Black Dolls Matter featuring Mark Ruffin

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

For this bonus episode, Rachael and Elizabeth are joined by the very talented artist and designer Mark Ruffin, who started the movement, Black Dolls Matter, which has grown from a social media campaign to a retailer of dolls, doll clothing, and accessories. He talks to Rachael and Elizabeth about how Black Dolls Matter came to be, the magic of having a doll that looks like you, how we can all support Black Dolls Matter, and the other creative endeavors that Mark has been a part of.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit the Black Dolls Matter website at www.blackdollsmatter.com

Whatever happens, we'll get through it together with Kay Bruner

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Kay Bruner is here and we're talking about her family motto: "whatever happens, we'll get through it together", how to make this holiday season meaningful regardless of how "unprecedented" this season will be, and the importance of boundaries.

Follow Everyday Thin Places on Insta: www.instagram.com/everydaythinplaces! We want to see you there!

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit Kay's website at www.kaybruner.com

The Enneagram featuring Erin Sur

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso discuss the enneagram with enneagram coach, Erin Sur. We discuss everything from how Erin uses the enneagram to coach her clients to which Friends characters fit into which enneagram type, and Elizabeth shares her image of each of the enneagram types as spots on a dance floor. Let's dance!

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit Erin's website at www.erinsur.com

A Holocaust Survivor and a Rainbow Baby

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso discuss a profound weekend that they both experienced a few weeks ago. Within a few hours, Elizabeth helped a family to welcome their rainbow baby into the world and Rachael said her final goodbye to her grandmother, a holocaust survivor. Rachael reminisces about her Gran, Rene Koenigsberg Hammond and Elizabeth opens up about the precious experience of helping to bring new life into the world.

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Public Art and Getting Out The Vote with Conrad Benner

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 03:00:00 -0500

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso are joined by Conrad Benner, who is a blogger, a podcaster, an organizer, a curator, and a photographer. They discuss "Mailbox Voters", a project created to educate voters on all the ways to vote, "To The Polls 2020", a display of temporary murals in Love Park using public art to encourage people to vote, and how Conrad balances non-partisan views with his own personal passion for politics, before diving in more deeply about using art as a form of resistance.

To check out the Common Threads mural discussed in this episode, go to: https://www.muralarts.org/artworks/common-threads/

Like what you hear and want to help support this podcast?
Say thank you by buying us a cup of coffee! www.ko-fi.com/everydaythinplaces

Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com

Visit the Streets Dept website at www.streetsdept.com

Bonus Episode - Special Election Edition featuring Tangle founder Issac Saul

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso are joined by Isaac Saul, a journalist and the founder of Tangle, an independent, ad-free, non-partisan, politics newsletter that offers both sides of the biggest news stories every day. He'll walk us through how Tangle came to be, what Isaac thinks of our shared state of Pennsylvania, and what his daily work looks like. This is a must listen (especially in this week leading up to the 2020 general election)!

To find out more about Tangle and to subscribe visit https://tangle.substack.com/about

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Horror Films featuring Jennifer Moorman

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Horror film scholar and expert, Jennifer Moorman is here for the episode we thought would be perfect for this week leading up to Halloween. Jen shares about how she developed a love for horror films, how monsters in horror films can help "outsiders" to feel empowered, and the power of the unknown that horror filmmakers tap into in order to scare us. We also discuss how death and birth are often explored in horror films and how these films can actually be comforting and even a thin place when we are feeling anxious.

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Listen to Jen's podcast "When Animal's Attack"

Everything is Spiritual with Rob Bell

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 03:00:00 -0400

Author, speaker, and podcaster Rob Bell joins us to talk about his new book, "Everything is Spiritual", the power of well-asked questions, and what is giving him hope right now. We begin by talking about the power of a good ending. Then we talk about everything from asking good questions, to the unexpected twists and turns of life, to human reproduction, and so much more.

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Visit Rob's website at www.robbell.com

Watch the unedited video version of this interview on YouTube

Birthing Your Stories with Halley Kim

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 01:00:00 -0400

Halley Kim joins us to talk about her service, "Birthing Your Stories", which is a service to help mothers to put their birth stories and stories of new beginnings into words. While many of us have struggled to put our stories onto paper, Halley shares about the importance of telling our stories and provides a way for us to get them out in the open. We also reflect on the importance of holding space and sharing stories of deep pain, like pregnancy and infant loss.

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Visit Halley's website at www.birthingyourstories.com

Earth with Christa Barfield of Farmer Jawn Greenhouses

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 01:00:00 -0400

BONUS EPISODE: Surfing with Jeremy Avellino

Sat, 03 Oct 2020 01:00:00 -0400

It's Fall! 'Tis the season for crisp air, bright leaves, pumpkins and ... surfing? Apparently it is, so we're talking about surfing with Jeremy Avellino in this bonus episode during water week of our 4 Elements Series. But we won't just be talking about surfing and how it can be a mystical and transformative thin place. We also talk about Jeremy's work as an architect, and take a wandering path that leads us through lots more provocative, challenging and inspiring topics.

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Visit the Bright Common website at www.brightcommon.com

Water with Keri McGinn of Halcyon Floats

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 01:00:00 -0400

In 2014, Keri McGinn opened Halcyon Floats in Philadelphia. It was the first flotation therapy location in Philadelphia, but it quickly gained popularity in the Philadelphia area. Keri joins us to talk about water and how floating can help with stress management, letting go, and even meditating to help us experience thin places.

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Visit the Halcyon Floats website at www.halcyonfloats.com

Fire with Ilyssa and Dave Kyu, editors of Campfire Stories: Tales from America's National Parks

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 01:00:00 -0400

Ilyssa and Dave Kyu, authors of Campfire Stories: Tales From America's National Parks are here! Ilyssa and Dave recount their time spent traveling around the US National Parks and reveal how campfires facilitate community, preserve history, and celebrate our shared heritage. Plus, Rachael and Elizabeth share some personal stories of the power of campfires in their own lives.

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Visit the Campfire Stories Book website at www.campfirestoriesbook.com

Air with Amy Wright Glenn

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth welcome Amy Wright Glenn to the show! Amy is the founder of the Institute for the Study of Birth, Breath, and Death and the author of Birth, Breath, and Death: Meditations on Motherhood, Chaplaincy, and Life as a Doula and Holding Space: On Loving, Dying, and Letting Go. Amy talks about how air and breath help her to hold space and be present for others in birth, in death, and in life. Amy, Rachael, and Elizabeth also discuss how our own breath is the best teacher on being more present and how Covid-19 has affected our views on breath and the sadness we are all experiencing due to not being able to share breath with others.

4 Elements

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso talk about what to expect in their upcoming series about the 4 elements. Rachael and Elizabeth open up about their experiences with each of the 4 elements as they relate to birth and death. Plus, you'll get a brief primer of each of the 4 elements.

Don't forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

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Queer Eye featuring Noah Hepler - Part Two

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 01:00:00 -0400

In part two of our interview with Pastor Noah Hepler, Noah shares with Rachael and Elizabeth how he felt about his experiences on Netflix's hit show, Queer Eye. And Noah gives us his HONEST reaction to Bobby Berk's interview with Philly Voice! Noah shares about vulnerability as a thin place. Plus, Elizabeth reveals a private moment from watching Queer Eye with her oldest daughter and how Noah's episode affected her family.

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Queer Eye featuring Noah Hepler - Part One

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 01:00:00 -0400

Pastor Noah Hepler joins us to talk about his experiences on the popular Netflix show, "Queer Eye", which was released earlier this summer. He shares about his emotions not only during filming, but also how being on the show has affected his life since then. For the first 15 minutes of the interview, we talk about Noah's work as a Lutheran pastor. The last 30 minutes, we discuss "Queer Eye", and you'll want to make sure to come back for more next week!

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Travel with Melody Boyd

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 00:00:00 -0400

We're excited to share with you an episode featuring Melody Boyd, world traveler. Melody traveled around the world in 2019 and joins us to talk about experiencing thin places on four continents, obstacles she faced along the way, and what she learned about herself and the world along the way.

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Ritual

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 01:00:00 -0400

To consider fear and pain, we also had to think about ritual. We hope this week's episode opens up conversations to help us to learn about helpful rituals that we can practice throughout all of life.

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Pain

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 01:00:00 -0400

We've had pain on our minds. After last week's episode about fear, we decided to release a three-episode series on fear, pain, and ritual. We hope this week's episode helps shine a light on the different types of pain that we ourselves have experienced and witnessed.

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Fear

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso dive into the topic of fear, its role and purpose in our lives, and how we can work with our fear in helpful ways.

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Can Facebook be a thin place?

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth share about their experiences with Facebook - when it most definitely has NOT been a thin place, but when it absolutely has. You'll hear from others who have found what it takes to create a sense of safe and authentic community on Facebook, and learn about how to participate in such an online community with other Everyday Thin Places listeners.

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Music Therapist featuring Heidi Lengel

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso are joined by Heidi Lengel to discuss her role as a Music Therapist specializing in maternal mental health during the perinatal period. You can expect authentic, powerful, and magical moments in this very special interview.

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Poet featuring Andrea Hope

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth are joined by poet, Andrea Hope to share herself as a poet, as a mother, and as a Baha'i.

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Visit Andrea's website at www.andreahope.org

Dancing Doula featuring Elizabeth Weinstein

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Rachael and Elizabeth are joined by “dancing doula”, Elizabeth Weinstein to chat about how she has learned to see everyday thin places, how she became a dancing doula, and how anyone can take steps to embrace movement as a thin place.

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Art Therapist featuring Dana Rummery

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Rachael Gallagher and Elizabeth Varaso interview art therapist, Dana Rummery about her work with hospice patients and their loved ones. Dana explains why and how art can be a “thin place” for all of us. They then discuss some simple ways that anyone can engage in art for self care. Finally they discuss how listeners can find out more about art therapy and support some causes that are important to Dana.

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Bonus Episode: In case it needed to be said, BLACK LIVES MATTER

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Because Black Lives Matter, Rachael and Elizabeth want to pause at this moment in history to explicitly share about how Black Birth and Black Death in particular matter.

Doula featuring Elizabeth Varaso

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Rachael interviews Elizabeth about her work as a birth doula and a childbirth educator. Elizabeth shares her personal thoughts about how birth is a “thin place” and we find out what the difference is between a doula and a midwife.

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Chaplain featuring Rachael Gallagher

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Rachael is interviewed by Elizabeth to address her work as an interfaith hospice chaplain and how this work is a “thin place”.

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"So what even is a thin place, anyway?"

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Interfaith hospice chaplain, Rachael Gallagher and birth doula, Elizabeth Varaso introduce the concept of “thin places”, addressing some misconceptions and exploring what thin places mean to them. Drawing from their experiences supporting birthing people and dying people, Rachael and Elizabeth explore with honesty, authenticity and humor how we can all become more truly-living people.

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Welcome to Everyday Thin Places

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 10:00:00 -0400

In each episode of Everyday Thin Places, birth doula Elizabeth Varaso and interfaith hospice chaplain Rachael Gallagher draw from their experiences supporting birthing people and dying people to explore with honesty, authenticity and humor how we can all become more truly-living people.

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Visit our website at www.everydaythinplaces.com