Brené with Sue Monk Kidd and Jen Hatmaker on Longing, Belonging and Faith

The 'Unlocking Us with Brené Brown' podcast episode featuring Sue Monk Kidd and Jen Hatmaker delves into the intertwined themes of longing, belonging, and faith. Brené begins by expressing her admiration for both guests, crediting them with teaching her how to reconcile her faith with her questions about religious doctrine and societal norms. Sue Monk Kidd, known for her impactful works like 'The Secret Life of Bees', discusses her journey through the exploration of contemplative spirituality and the challenge of voicing personal truths within the confines of established religion. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth and the universal resonance of individual experiences. Sue describes her writing as an honest reflection of her own spiritual process, which she believes can mirror the journeys of many others.

Brené and Sue engage in a profound conversation about the struggles and revelations in Sue's books, particularly 'When the Heart Waits' and 'The Dance of the Dissident Daughter'. Sue's insights into the nature of personal longing and the quest for a deep connection with the divine spark within oneself are highlighted. She also previews her new book, 'The Book of Longings', which imagines the life of Jesus' wife, Anna, and her desire to live a life of purpose.

Jen Hatmaker then joins the conversation, sharing her experience of finding her voice and standing her ground in the face of threats to her sense of belonging within her faith community. Jen discusses the repercussions of publicly supporting the LGBTQ+ community and how it led to her excommunication from her religious circle. She talks about the emotional and physical toll of aligning her public persona with her private convictions, ultimately choosing integrity over career security. Jen emphasizes the importance of women having the freedom to express their desires and ambitions without sacrificing their personal integrity or sense of belonging.

Both guests share their personal narratives of struggle, revelation, and the pursuit of authenticity. They discuss the price of silence and the cost of speaking one's truth, especially within the context of religious and societal expectations.