The Minimalists are Emmy-nominated Netflix stars and New York Times–bestselling authors Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus. Alongside cohost T.K. Coleman, they help millions of people live meaningful lives with less.
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Established in 1948, Central Lutheran Church has been a beacon of faith and community in Elk River, Minnesota, for more than seven decades. Led by our dedicated Lead Pastor, Ryan Braley, we are a congregation deeply rooted in family values and intergenerational connection. Central Lutheran Church offers two services every Sunday at 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM, welcoming individuals and families of all ages to join us in worship and fellowship. Our services and activities are thoughtfully designed t ...
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Yirah, and That One Time I Was In the Ocean with Pastor Ryan Braley
41:10
41:10
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41:10Dive into a captivating exploration of the profound interplay between fear and wonder in the realm of faith in this episode. Drawing from personal stories and biblical narratives, we unpack the meaning of Yirah, a Hebrew word that translates to a unique blend of awe and fear in respect to the divine. As we share experiences of standing at the edge …
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For the finale of their five-part Household Clutter series, The Minimalists are joined by Kristen Ziegler to talk about decluttering the excess stuff that’s lurking in your cabinets, drawers, and other hiding spaces in your kitchen and throughout the rest of your home. Discussed in this episode: What can I do with all of the occasionally used appli…
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What does the book of Nahum have to teach us about finding hope in darkness? As we dive deep into this often-overlooked minor prophet, we explore the harsh realities of life in Nineveh, a city steeped in wickedness and oppression. Through the lens of Nahum's short but powerful message, listeners are encouraged to reevaluate the complexities of fait…
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For the fourth episode in their five-part Household Clutter series, The Minimalists are joined by Cas Aarssen to talk about the bedroom clutter that gets in the way of peace and intimacy. Discussed in this episode: What can I do to minimize the clutter that keeps building on my nightstand? (2:30) What’s your personal definition of bedroom clutter a…
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Embracing Spiritual Rebirth with Nicodemus {Reflections}
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6:24
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6:24Join us! Facebook | Instagram | www.clcelkriver.orgBy Central Lutheran Church
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School Principals, Logan’s Swimsuit, and the Pathos of God with Pastor Ryan Braley
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34:56
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34:56Join us! Facebook | Instagram | www.clcelkriver.orgBy Central Lutheran Church
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For the third episode in their five-part Household Clutter series, The Minimalists are joined by Dr. Julia Raz to talk about garage clutter, including the excess stuff that is hidden in basements, attics, sheds, and storage areas. Discussed in this episode: What boundaries can my family establish to minimize all the excess stuff in our garage, base…
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Comedic Reflections on a Biblical Story {Reflections}
7:50
7:50
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7:50Ever wondered why Jesus' first miracle was turning water into wine at a wedding? On our 75th episode of the Reflections podcast, I, Ryan, along with a group of lively young men, take a comedic yet insightful look at this intriguing story from the Gospel of John. Join us as we explore the cultural nuances and humorous elements of this miracle, quest…
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Adventures in Missing the Point with Ben Carruthers
28:56
28:56
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28:56Ever wonder how the struggles of an ancient society mirror the distractions we face today? Join me, Ben Carruthers, as I recount tales of my son Ezra’s delightful distractions and the Israelites’ own diversions from their mission, as captured in the book of Amos. You’ll discover how their lapses and our modern-day detours share a common thread: an …
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For the second episode in their five-part Household Clutter series, The Minimalists are joined by Courtney Carver to talk about decluttering the excess clothes, shoes, and accessories in our closets. Discussed in this episode: I’m great at decluttering, but why can’t I stop buying new clothes? (2:28) Why do you own so many clothes? (15:27) Listener…
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What happens when you feel lost, yet are assured of an unwavering sense of belonging? Join us as we explore the timeless parables of the lost son, the lost sheep, and the lost coin from the Gospel of Luke, with a special focus on my all-time favorite—the prodigal son. These stories vividly portray the relentless love and determination of a father, …
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Can a prophet from the past illuminate our present? Join us as we explore the compelling world of Zephaniah, one of the so-called "minor" prophets who packs quite a punch in a small package. Through humor and historical context, we liken Zephaniah to figures like Moses, revealing his potential royal lineage and the significant role he played in anc…
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For the first episode in their five-part Household Clutter series, The Minimalists are joined by Joshua Becker to talk about decluttering the things that make a mess of our living spaces. Discussed in this episode: Where is the best place to start decluttering? (4:44) How is our cluttered home harming our family? (8:49) What purpose does your livin…
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Why did God create human beings? It's one of the oldest questions known to humanity, and we're tackling it head-on in our latest episode. Was it for worship, companionship, or perhaps something else entirely? Join us as we challenge these conventional answers and explore a more profound perspective rooted in the Trinitarian view of God. We delve in…
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Life Lessons are Many but Requirements are Few with Sonja Knutson
22:34
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22:34Micah, the prophet from a small town with a big message, challenges us to question: What does it truly mean to live justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God? Join me, Sonja Knutson, as we uncover the profound lessons from this seemingly quiet but powerful figure in our winter sermon series, "The B-Side." Through personal stories and reflections…
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In this bonus episode, The Minimalists talk about the clutter that is often caused by smart devices. Discussed in this episode: Should I let go of my Apple Watch, Peloton, WHOOP, and other fitness trackers and smart devices? (1:09) How are The Minimalists using social media after their 2024 break? (18:47) New York Times article mentioned: https://m…
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Understanding Existence Through Ancient Texts {Reflections}
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6:56
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6:56What if a simple phrase could unlock the mysteries of existence itself? Join me, Ryan, on Reflections as we unravel the enigmatic dialogue between God and Moses in Exodus, chapter 3. Discover the profound layers of meaning behind God's response, "I am who I am," and explore the linguistic and philosophical depths of the Hebrew phrase "Eya Asher Eya…
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Can questioning authority be an act of faith? Join us as we explore the intriguing lives of the minor prophets in our series, "The B-Sides," and discover how their bold actions communicated divine messages. Our spotlight this week is on Habakkuk, who, like his contemporaries, boldly questioned the justice of his time. We delve into the historical c…
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The Minimalists talk about the benefits and downsides of wasting time. Discussed in this episode: When is it selfish to say no to the people I love? (1:54) What are you most likely to waste your time on right now? (20:10) Listener tip: When you’re done clearing out your home, you have to do the same to the rest of your life. (36:51) Listen to the f…
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Awakening to the Mystical Side of Faith {Reflections}
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9:52
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9:52What happens when a search for meaning takes you through atheism, Buddhism, and even witchcraft, only to find resonance in an unexpected place? Paul Kingsnorth shares his remarkable spiritual journey with us, highlighting the stark contrasts between his youthful experiences of Christianity in the Church of England and the less traditional approache…
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What if the hidden gems of the Old Testament have more to teach us than we ever realized? Journey with us into the world of the minor prophets in our new series, "The B-Sides: The Minor Prophets," where we unearth the timeless wisdom hidden in these often-overlooked biblical figures. You'll discover how the likes of Zechariah can provide crucial in…
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The Minimalists talk about going without the things that get in the way. Discussed in this episode: How do I let go of my phone distractions to be more productive? (1:46) What’s one thing you’d like to go without this year? (21:21) What happened when The Minimalists were recently hacked? (30:50) Will The Minimalists return to social media after goi…
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Challenging Truths: Embracing the Teachings of Jesus {Reflections}
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7:08
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7:08Imagine standing in a crowd, captivated by a man whose words are as challenging as they are life-altering. That's the scene I explore today as we reflect on a poignant moment in the book of John, where Jesus, instead of pandering to the masses, delivers a message that causes many to walk away. Why would someone choose to remain, even when the teach…
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Unlock the profound wisdom hidden within the simplicity of the Lord’s Prayer. By dissecting its 57 Greek words, we promise you'll gain fresh insights into this ancient text and a deeper understanding of your spiritual connection. Our journey begins with a reflection on how this prayer, despite its simplicity, can often lose its depth in familiarity…
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The Ripple Effect of Small Actions {Reflections}
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9:59
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9:59Ever noticed how the smallest actions can ripple into significant impacts? Picture this: you're at Planet Fitness, and someone mindlessly spits gum into a urinal. Or maybe you're at Barnes & Noble, and a fellow shopper almost leaves a fallen book on the floor. These seemingly minor choices remind us that doing the right thing, no matter how trivial…
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The Gifts of Christmas with Pastor Ryan Braley
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31:39
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31:39Imagine receiving an unexpected gift from a basement scavenger hunt—sounds humorous, right? We kick things off with a lighthearted tale of re-gifting that reframes this common practice as a meaningful act of sharing and connection. This playful beginning sets the stage for a warm exploration of the Advent season, where the true spirit of Christmas …
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What if the secret to experiencing an extraordinary life lies in the simple act of obedience? Join me, Ben Carruthers, as we uncover the profound impact of Christmas traditions and the timeless lessons embedded within the story of Joseph. Through a personal tradition of writing letters to my future self each Christmas, I capture the essence of the …
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The Minimalists talk with Eli Harwood about secure attachments and attachment theory. Discussed in this episode: How is collecting related to emotional insecurity? (2:19) What is attachment theory? (16:52) What are the four attachment styles? (17:46) When is attachment useful and when is it clinging? (22:44) Listener insight: the gift of listening!…
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The Light of Christmas: Unraveling Its Origins and Finding Hope {Reflections}
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9:10Ever wondered why Christmas is celebrated on December 25th, despite clues that point to Jesus being born in the spring? Join us as we unravel this mystery and explore the origins of Christmas celebrations, tracing back to early Christians and their encounters with the Celtic people. By intertwining their messages with the Celts' winter solstice cel…
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The Minimalists talk about the opposite of hoarding. Discussed in this episode: What happens when you take downsizing too far? (2:05) How do you stop yourself from minimizing excessively? (24:05) The Minimalists’ birthday + we were featured on Jeopardy! (36:17) Listener tip: One of the most helpful minimalist tools. (41:35) Listen to the full Maxim…
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Balancing Attachments: A Journey of Self-Reflection {Reflections}
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7:16
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7:16As a lifelong Denver Broncos fan, I’ve experienced the exhilarating highs and crushing lows that come with sports fandom. But one Monday night game against the Dolphins became a wake-up call, highlighting the intense emotional energy I invested in something beyond my control. In this episode of the Reflections podcast, I invite you on a journey of …
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Ever found yourself stuck at the DMV, feeling the seconds tick by with no sign of joy? Let's explore the often overlooked connection between waiting and joy, especially during the Advent season. Sharing personal stories, from the mundane frustration of traffic jams to the deeply emotional anticipation of a child's birth, we navigate the human strug…
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The Minimalists talk about that overwhelming feeling that most of us experience when our homes are full of clutter. Discussed in this episode: Is a junk removal service the best way to deal with a house full of clutter? (2:38) At what point does your home feel cluttered? (22:23) When is The Minimalists’ next live event? (39:11) Listener tip: T.K. C…
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Anticipation and reflection mark our journey through the Advent season, a time filled with both hope and longing. Have you ever wondered how the humble beginnings of Jesus contrast with the might of rulers like King Herod and Caesar? Join me as I unravel these themes, exploring the profound contrast between divine humility and worldly power. I shar…
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The Hope of Advent with Kaycee Stanley from The Reel Hope Project
26:52
26:52
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26:52Casey Stanley, formerly Casey Robertson, shares her inspiring journey from youth ministry to launching the Real Hope Project, a nonprofit focused on finding adoptive homes for foster children. Discover how Casey’s passion for creating a brighter future for these children is fueled by a profound understanding of hope, which she distinguishes from me…
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Rediscovering Community: From Coffee Shops to Genuine Connections {Reflections}
8:46
8:46
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8:46Imagine a world where your local café is more than just a stop for caffeine—it's a place where everybody knows your name, a sanctuary from the hustle, inspired by a stroll through Italian streets. In our latest episode, sparked by Howard Schultz's transformative vision for Starbucks, we unravel this captivating journey from high-end coffee bean ret…
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The Peace of Advent with Pastor Ryan Braley
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30:30Imagine finding peace in the busiest season of the year, rediscovering the wonder of the Advent season in a world obsessed with data and facts. Our latest podcast episode invites you on a journey through the transformative themes of peace, hope, joy, and love, with a special focus on the concept of shalom. We kick off with a personal story about th…
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The Minimalists dive deep into the anxiety that often accompanies the holiday shopping season. Discussed in this episode: How can I stop people from buying unnecessary Christmas gifts that clutter our home? (2:37) What fills your holiday season with anxiety and what do you do to minimize holiday clutter? (20:15) Listener tip: A helpful script for o…
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