Learning How to See with Brian McLaren

Seeing Nature as a Gardener (Part 2) With Cassidy Steele Dale

Learning How to See with Brian McLaren

Show Notes

How do you think our personal beliefs and values shape the way we see the world? In this episode, as we continue to explore the theme of learning to see nature as a gardener, Brian explores the concept of worldviews with futurist Cassidy Steele Dale. They delve into the "Knight" and "Gardener" perspectives, examining how these contrasting ways of seeing the world impact our relationships, our faith, and our approach to global challenges. Resources:

The transcript for this episode can be found here.

The Knight and the Gardener: The e-book is available here.

Combat Theology: Cassidy's e-book exploring how religious strain can turn toxic and how to undo that process is available here.

Think Future: Cassidy's Substack, where he shares insights about the future can be found here.

Life After Doom: The new book by Brian McLaren can be found here and wherever books are sold.

More from Learning How to See with Brian McLaren

Oct 22, 2026

Today's episode features an audio essay from Edith Woodley on the Biblical story of Joseph, which she first knew as a child in its tidy, happily-ever-after form. Brian McLaren and Randy Woodley respond, tracing how favoritism, from Jacob’s family to colonial rule in Rwanda and Burundi, can create cycles of intergenerational trauma.

Oct 15, 2026

In today's episode, we look at the Genesis 12 story of Abram, in contrast to that of Joshua. Hosts Brian McLaren, Randy Woodley, and Edith Woodley explore how Abram, as an immigrant, respects the customs and values of those around him, versus Joshua's conquering narrative. The three reflect on how the Bible can be used to justify harm, or harmony, focusing on the way in which Westerners coming to the United States wielded Joshua's approach as a weapon against Native Peoples.

Oct 8, 2026

In today's episode, we look at the Genesis 12 story of Abram’s call. Hosts Brian McLaren, Randy Woodley, and Edith Woodley explore what it means to be “blessed to be a blessing,” how generosity and hospitality can shape our identities, and how a strong sense of identity can become a gift to others rather than a reason for exclusion or domination.

Oct 1, 2026

In today's episode, we explore the story of the Tower of Babel and turn the usual reading of it upside down. Diverse languages, in this telling, are not the curse — the tower is.

Sep 24, 2026

Thank you for joining us for today's episode of Learning How to See, hosted by Brian McLaren, with guest hosts Rev. Dr. Randy Woodley and Edith Woodley.

See all episodes →