As we learn to navigate the vicissitudes and vagaries of life, we can borrow wisdom from the Buffalo who runs headlong into the storm. Join me for the new season of Open Spaces with Joseph Thompson where we explore a host of ideas to make us better humans.

As we learn to navigate the vicissitudes and vagaries of life, we can borrow wisdom from the Buffalo who runs headlong into the storm. Join me for the new season of Open Spaces with Joseph Thompson where we explore a host of ideas to make us better humans.

Into The Storm - 07.08.22 - S6, Episode 1

In a world where familiarity often breeds contempt, how do we allow people to see us close up yet not lose sight of the value we bring? Inattentional blindness is a condition that plagues us all, but it doesn't have to have the final word. Tune in and find out how to overcome this condition.

In a world where familiarity often breeds contempt, how do we allow people to see us close up yet not lose sight of the value we bring? Inattentional blindness is a condition that plagues us all, but it doesn't have to have the final word. Tune in and find out how to overcome this condition.

Glass or Sand? What do you See? - 06.17.22 - S5, Episode 10

The Church is called to "Go into all the world..." but some of us are more inclined to focus on what's happening in the building. Is that wrong? Do we all have to feel called to "do the work of an evangelist?" My guest and I tackle yet another hot-button issue in an attempt to understand our different callings. Pull up a chair, you'll need to sit down for this one!

The Church is called to "Go into all the world..." but some of us are more inclined to focus on what's happening in the building. Is that wrong? Do we all have to feel called to "do the work of an evangelist?" My guest and I tackle yet another hot-button issue in an attempt to understand our different callings. Pull up a chair, you'll need to sit down for this one!

Inside Out - 06.10.22 - S5, Episode 9

We're touching all the sensitive nerves in this two part series. Last week, in part 1, we talked about abortion and the likely reversal of Roe v. Wade. This week we're talking about gun control, immigration, and the Christian position on both...if there actually is one. Join us from the relative safety of your "chair" as my guest and I take on these behemoths that have threatened to destroy the most hardy of relationships.

We're touching all the sensitive nerves in this two part series. Last week, in part 1, we talked about abortion and the likely reversal of Roe v. Wade. This week we're talking about gun control, immigration, and the Christian position on both...if there actually is one. Join us from the relative safety of your "chair" as my guest and I take on these behemoths that have threatened to destroy the most hardy of relationships.

A World in Disarray? (Part 2) - 06.03.22 - S5, Episode 8

With the seemingly inevitable reversal of Roe v. Wade, what does that portend for pro-choice advocates? Will abortion become illegal across the United States? Will the sudden rise of illegal abortion clinics take advantage of women at their most vulnerable? I put my guest on the spot this week and insist that he speaks about issues that make grown men tremble and quake in their shoes. Join us from your comfortable "chair" and listen in on the conversation.

With the seemingly inevitable reversal of Roe v. Wade, what does that portend for pro-choice advocates? Will abortion become illegal across the United States? Will the sudden rise of illegal abortion clinics take advantage of women at their most vulnerable? I put my guest on the spot this week and insist that he speaks about issues that make grown men tremble and quake in their shoes. Join us from your comfortable "chair" and listen in on the conversation.

A World in Disarray? (Part 1) - 05.27.22 - S5, Episode 7

Vibrant living is so much more than being part of a nuclear family. My guest today has lived this truth and shares an incredible amount of wisdom with our audience. You won't want to miss this!

Vibrant living is so much more than being part of a nuclear family. My guest today has lived this truth and shares an incredible amount of wisdom with our audience. You won't want to miss this!

Living Vibrantly - 05.20.22 - S5, Episode 6

Vulnerability defined is the willingness to show emotion or to allow one's weaknesses to be seen or known....It is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change. Shame, on the other hand is the swampland of the soul, and secrecy, silence, and judgment are the key ingredients in the petri dish of shame. Want to find out more? Tune in this Friday!

Vulnerability defined is the willingness to show emotion or to allow one's weaknesses to be seen or known....It is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change. Shame, on the other hand is the swampland of the soul, and secrecy, silence, and judgment are the key ingredients in the petri dish of shame. Want to find out more? Tune in this Friday!

Vulnerability is a Strength not a Weakness - 05.13.2022 - S5, Episode 5

What are the things that matter most to you as you navigate the journey of life? My guest and I discuss some of those things as we recount our journey. This promises to be an enlightening conversation!--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast.  https://anchor.fm/app

What are the things that matter most to you as you navigate the journey of life? My guest and I discuss some of those things as we recount our journey. This promises to be an enlightening conversation!--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. <a href="https://anchor.fm/app" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://anchor.fm/app</a>

A Quick Reminder - 05.06.2022 - S5, Episode 4

I'm on a quest to become a better version of myself with each passing day, but it can sometimes be so frustrating as I find myself failing...a lot! But it appears I'm in good company. With whom? Well, why don't you tune in and find out? See you in Open Spaces.

I'm on a quest to become a better version of myself with each passing day, but it can sometimes be so frustrating as I find myself failing...a lot! But it appears I'm in good company. With whom? Well, why don't you tune in and find out? See you in Open Spaces.

Systemic Patterns of Failure - 04.29.2022 - S5, Episode 3

What does it take for your dreams to become your reality? Kalpana Chawa said, "The path from dreams to success does exist," but I'm under no illusions that it takes work and a change in your mindset. Join us as we discuss that in this episode.

What does it take for your dreams to become your reality? Kalpana Chawa said, "The path from dreams to success does exist," but I'm under no illusions that it takes work and a change in your mindset. Join us as we discuss that in this episode.

The Road Less Travelled - 04.22.2022 - S5, Episode 2

I absolutely thrive on adventures into the wide open spaces of life. Having traveled to 5 and lived on 3 continents, I draw on the experiences of myriad life lessons I've learned which create a common thread that knit together the passions and desires of humanity no matter who or where you are, or what season you find yourself living in. Life, put into proper perspective, can be a refreshing, informative journey, and the lessons learned along the way can serve to make us better people. You're welcome to join me on the journey!

Have you ever met someone who invented something and became rich, and you thought, "Why don't I have the smarts to come up with inventions like that?" Could it be that you're just a run of the mill average Joe? Listen in and find out.

Have you ever met someone who invented something and became rich, and you thought, "Why don't I have the smarts to come up with inventions like that?" Could it be that you're just a run of the mill average Joe? Listen in and find out.

Average Joe - 04.15.2022 - S5, Episode 1

The original Greek word for wisdom as used in the Scriptures is Sophia (I've always loved that name), but how does it differ from any other kind of wisdom? Better yet, how do I get this kind of wisdom? Join me and find out on the season finale of Open Spaces.

The original Greek word for wisdom as used in the Scriptures is Sophia (I've always loved that name), but how does it differ from any other kind of wisdom? Better yet, how do I get this kind of wisdom? Join me and find out on the season finale of Open Spaces.

I Confess, I'm In Love With Sophia... - 03.25.2022 - S4, Episode 10

If we take off the costumes we all wear, we're more likely to understand the myriad ways in which people express their humanity. Only then can we truly love the way Jesus calls us to.

If we take off the costumes we all wear, we're more likely to understand the myriad ways in which people express their humanity. Only then can we truly love the way Jesus calls us to.

Costumes, Multi-Ethnic Kids, and Building For the Future - 03.18.2022 - S4, Episode 9

Deconstructing racial and religious programming isn't the same as denying reality. Join my guest and I on her, over twenty year journey of deconstructing certain beliefs she's held.

Deconstructing racial and religious programming isn't the same as denying reality. Join my guest and I on her, over twenty year journey of deconstructing certain beliefs she's held.

Deconstructing... - 03.11.2022 - S4, Episode 8

PAPER

We humans have a way of creating a narrative that soothes our collective conscience and makes us feel better about behaviors that are cringeworthy.  In the inimitable words of President Francis Underwood, "Welcome to the death of the age of reason." No matter what side of the current geo-political climate you fall on, you're going to want to hear this episode.

We humans have a way of creating a narrative that soothes our collective conscience and makes us feel better about behaviors that are cringeworthy.  In the inimitable words of President Francis Underwood, "Welcome to the death of the age of reason." No matter what side of the current geo-political climate you fall on, you're going to want to hear this episode.

Of Paper Tigers, Invasions, and Imperialism - 03.04.2022 - S4, Episode 7

In life, while the destination is often exciting, the journey is really what it's all about. The cruise ship industry has figured that out and use it to their advantage. Ultimately, a cruise isn't really about where you're going or the ports you're calling at, but about the journey itself, and so the best cruise liners go out of their way to create an experience worthy of sharing and even repeating. But I digress! I'm not talking about cruise ships in this episode, however my guest and I are talking about the journey so far and what a day in the life of the adventure we're on might look like for her. Figured out who my guest is yet? Don't worry, you don't have to guess. Just click on the hyperlink and join us for a great experience.

In life, while the destination is often exciting, the journey is really what it's all about. The cruise ship industry has figured that out and use it to their advantage. Ultimately, a cruise isn't really about where you're going or the ports you're calling at, but about the journey itself, and so the best cruise liners go out of their way to create an experience worthy of sharing and even repeating. But I digress! I'm not talking about cruise ships in this episode, however my guest and I are talking about the journey so far and what a day in the life of the adventure we're on might look like for her. Figured out who my guest is yet? Don't worry, you don't have to guess. Just click on the hyperlink and join us for a great experience.

A day in the life of... - 02.25.2022 - S4, Episode 6

How do I respond when I'm feeling unfairly beaten up by life's relentless pressures? There are primarily two kinds of games in the gaming industry, the finite and the infinite. The goal of the finite game is simply to win! Once you win it's over. The goal of the infinite game is to keep playing. It's never ending and you simply continue to climb to higher levels with each successive conquest. Most infinite games are free to download but have in-app purchases that provide greater and greater incentives that commit you to the game.  If we distill life down to the analogy of a video game, then life is the infinite game version. Want to understand how and why? Tune in and find out! 

How do I respond when I'm feeling unfairly beaten up by life's relentless pressures? There are primarily two kinds of games in the gaming industry, the finite and the infinite. The goal of the finite game is simply to win! Once you win it's over. The goal of the infinite game is to keep playing. It's never ending and you simply continue to climb to higher levels with each successive conquest. Most infinite games are free to download but have in-app purchases that provide greater and greater incentives that commit you to the game.  If we distill life down to the analogy of a video game, then life is the infinite game version. Want to understand how and why? Tune in and find out!

Go Tell John... - 02.18.2022 - S4, Episode 5

In this episode we explore the ties that bind us together. We reminisce about the past, live in the present, and dream about the future. My guest isn't a stranger to our long time listeners, but the new season calls for a new outlook and a fresh perspective. No matter what obstacles life throws at you, as a Christ follower you've been uniquely equipped to face the challenges, head right into the storm, and come out the other side a stronger and better person. I love the raw and honest journey this episode will take you on. Don't listen alone, invite a friend or two, and definitely invite family. You can thank me later!

In this episode we explore the ties that bind us together. We reminisce about the past, live in the present, and dream about the future. My guest isn't a stranger to our long time listeners, but the new season calls for a new outlook and a fresh perspective. No matter what obstacles life throws at you, as a Christ follower you've been uniquely equipped to face the challenges, head right into the storm, and come out the other side a stronger and better person. I love the raw and honest journey this episode will take you on. Don't listen alone, invite a friend or two, and definitely invite family. You can thank me later!

New beginnings - 02.11.2022 - S4, Episode 4

Mark Batterson, in his devotional titled, Flip The Script, suggests that: "If your life isn't what you want it to be, it may be because you're telling yourself the wrong story." You see, as a Christ follower I've always maintained that stories shape the ethos of any community--in other words, stories shape the characteristic spirit of a culture or community as manifested in said culture's beliefs and aspirations. If this is true, and I'm confident that it is, then what is the ethos of the Christ-following community? What narrative are we telling ourselves and the rest of the world that makes our story valuable and worthy of pursuing? I invite you to join me on this episode as I explore the answers to these troubling questions.

Mark Batterson, in his devotional titled, Flip The Script, suggests that: "If your life isn't what you want it to be, it may be because you're telling yourself the wrong story." You see, as a Christ follower I've always maintained that stories shape the ethos of any community--in other words, stories shape the characteristic spirit of a culture or community as manifested in said culture's beliefs and aspirations. If this is true, and I'm confident that it is, then what is the ethos of the Christ-following community? What narrative are we telling ourselves and the rest of the world that makes our story valuable and worthy of pursuing? I invite you to join me on this episode as I explore the answers to these troubling questions.

Flip the Script (Making Life Work)! - 02.04.2022 - S4, Episode 3

This week my guest and I discover a few "hidden" secrets which we explore in some detail. Living life requires so many things of us, and the truth is that sometimes the best--or at least the most useful--part of the lessons we learn from life are actually not found in the destination but in the journey itself. Ultimately, what adds the greatest value from your journey, in helping other people navigate theirs, is your story. So what's your story? How are you using it to make the world around you better? Don't even know what that means or where to begin? Then this podcast will help give you perspective. Invite your friends and family, and you can thank me later!

This week my guest and I discover a few "hidden" secrets which we explore in some detail. Living life requires so many things of us, and the truth is that sometimes the best--or at least the most useful--part of the lessons we learn from life are actually not found in the destination but in the journey itself. Ultimately, what adds the greatest value from your journey, in helping other people navigate theirs, is your story. So what's your story? How are you using it to make the world around you better? Don't even know what that means or where to begin? Then this podcast will help give you perspective. Invite your friends and family, and you can thank me later!

Formula 1, building ministry, and other stories - 01.28.2022 - S4, Episode 2

Open Spaces

The best self improvement podcast episodes. From improving productivity, to finding purpose in your life to what constitutes freedom, this topic is on anything and everything that can help people to improve their lives. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

Best Episodes on Self Improvement, Growth & Development

The best podcast episodes on parenting. Interviewing experts and talking through common issues surrounding parenting. This topic is filled with important lessons and insights for anyone listening. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!