Turning to the Mystics with James Finley
Center for Action and ContemplationTurning to the Mystics is a podcast for people searching for something more meaningful, intimate and richly present in the divine gift of their lives. James Finley, clinical psychologist and Living School faculty, offers a modern take on the historical contemplative practices of Christian mystics like Teresa of Avila, Thomas Merton, John of the Cross among others. Leaning into their experiences ca... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 172 | Founded | 6 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | ChristianityReligion & SpiritualitySpirituality | |||
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Latest Episodes
This is the first session which focuses on Thérèse of Lisieux. In the tenor of the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, James Finley reads passages from the John Clarke translation of Thérèse's Story of a Soul, reflects on core themes, and finishes wit... more
Welcome to Season 13 of Turning to the Mystics.
This season we are turning to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux for spiritual guidance. In this episode, James Finley and Kirsten Oates cover the life and person of Thérèse and discuss how we can work with her ... more
Season 13 of Turning to the Mystics will continue with our next mystic, St. Thérèse of Lisieux.
Our journey begins on March 16th, 2026.
Resources:
The books Jim will be referencing this season are:
•
Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. T... more
In this episode, Kirsten and Jim answer Season 12 listener questions, which focus on the teachings of Brother Lawrence.
Resources:
• The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Connect with us:
• This podcast is made possible thanks to... more
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Reviews
- Profound
I will be forever grateful to Jim for his wise and deep counsel. He says things that no one else does, that my soul needs to hear, infused with love and calm. I have been following him for years and still listen every day.
Apple Podcasts5RS xxx
United Kingdom2 months ago - Dynamic Duo
James and Kristen are fabulous together. My favorite podcast by far. Thoroughly enjoying this slow walk looking intimately at Brother Lawrence. Thank you.
Apple Podcasts5Difelt
United States2 months ago - Beyond kindergarten Christianity
Is Richard Rohr says many of us are still at that kindergarten level with our Christianity and these podcasts, any of them from the center of action and contemplation encourage us to think to open our hearts and listen for the truth in the light keeps me inquisitive encourages my knowledge in my faith I recommended to anyone
Apple Podcasts5GramyDonnaUnited States3 months ago - In sightful
Finley draws up a lifetime of contemplation to share deep insights and helpful practices. I feel the spirit of the saints.
I try hard to listen to the content and ignore the form. Or I’d throw a book at Finley’s constant talking over Kirsten before she can even finish her well articulated thought. All she’s doing is building the springboard for Finley’s perfect dive. Alas, throwing in the feminine pronoun here and there’s not the same as living respect. Grating! Does his consciousness rise afte... more
Apple Podcasts4TDK seeks serenity
Australia3 months ago - Brother Lawrence podcast
Thank you so much 👀💖🍓🍓
Apple Podcasts5Mosquito 🐰
Hong Kong4 months ago
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Apple Podcasts | #93 | United States/Religion & Spirituality/Christianity |
Apple Podcasts | #127 | United States/Religion & Spirituality |
Apple Podcasts | #9 | United Kingdom/Religion & Spirituality/Christianity |
Apple Podcasts | #22 | United Kingdom/Religion & Spirituality |
Apple Podcasts | #34 |  Canada/Religion & Spirituality/Christianity |
Apple Podcasts | #52 | Canada/Religion & Spirituality |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Turning to the Mystics
What is Turning to the Mystics about and what kind of topics does it cover?
The show centers on contemplative spirituality rooted in Christian mysticism, featuring deep conversations about presence, mindfulness, and love as lived experiences. Across episodes, listeners hear thoughtful explorations of figures like Brother Lawrence, Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, and Gabriel Marcel, with practical guidance for integrating spiritual practice into everyday life. The tone is calm, patient, and devotional, often blending personal anecdotes with scholarly insight to help listeners cultivate inner stillness, compassion, and a clearer sense of God's presence amid modern stresses. Notable strengths include accessible dialogue between the hosts and a focus on applying timeless mysticism to real life, aging, trauma, and r... more
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Which podcasts are similar to Turning to the Mystics?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Turning to the Mystics:
1. Everything Belongs: Living the Teachings of Richard Rohr Forward
2. On Being with Krista Tippett
3. The Spiritual Life with Fr. James Martin, S.J.
4. Sounds True: Insights at the Edge
5. The Bible For Normal People
How many episodes of Turning to the Mystics are there?
Turning to the Mystics launched 6 years ago and published 172 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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What guests have appeared on Turning to the Mystics?
Recent guests on Turning to the Mystics include:
1. Carmen Acevedo Butcher
2. Gregory Sadler
3. Malcolm Guite
4. Bernard McGinn
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