Impact!

Ellen Bintz & Clive Johnson
  • 0.0 (0)
  • SPIRITUALITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Impact! is a podcast that creates change WITH our listeners, using the power of prayer and intention to bring about positive change in our world. Each week, we explore one aspect of what it means to pray, offer healing, or send intention out into the world, and by so doing, to actually have an impact. We welcome anyone who wants to play their part in creating peace, harmony and healing in the world.

  1. 5D AGO

    Aligned: Reclaiming Attention in a Distracted World with Mark Heath

    In an inspiring and very enlightening episode, Clive talks to former monk, writer and Transcendental Meditation (TM) teacher Mark Heath, about how we can direct and maintain attention to what serves us, rather than what doesn't. Drawing on teachings from Mark's new book, 'Aligned: From Distraction to Direction,' we explore how we may stop our focus from being hijacked to direct attention where we want to have impact. With insights from neuroscience, psychology and biology, we learn why human beings are predisposed to being distracted, and understand how we might reframe our focus, reduce distraction, and bring more flow and balance into our daily lives. Mark is one of Clive's teachers, introducing him to TM more than 20 years ago. He lived in a monastic community for many years, before returning to the UK, where he now runs Brighton's TM Centre. Mark's book, 'Aligned: From Distraction to Direction — Practical Neuroscience for Focus and Flow,' is available in both paperback and ebook editions from Amazon and other bookstores. Amazon.com link: https://www.amazon.com/Aligned-Distraction-Direction-Practical-Neuroscience-ebook/dp/B0G5XNTRJK/ref=sr_1_1 Amazon.co.uk: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Aligned-Distraction-Direction-Practical-Neuroscience-ebook/dp/B0G5XNTRJK/ref=sr_1_1  Find out about Mark's services, including 1:1 coaching at  itsmarkheath.com. Chapter markers: 00:00:00            Introduction 00:03:22            Mark’s life as a Monk 00:12:02            Returning to the Outside World 00:12:20            Balancing Inner and Outer Life 00:16:29            Mark’s New Book 00:21:15            Understanding Distraction 00:25:17            The Biology of Attention 00:27:48            Perception and Reality 00:31:11            The Concept of Maya 00:33:32            The Reframe Method 00:41:15            Insights and Letting Go 00:41:51            Final Thoughts Join us in person for intention holding:  https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.   Our websites:   www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.   https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.   https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.   https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.   Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.   Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.   Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.   Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).   Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.   Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.

    44 min

  2. FEB 12

    The Good News Edition(Feb 2026)

    In an uplifting episode, we highlight and give thanks for a host of encouraging developments from the early weeks of this year, inviting listeners to share with us in holding an intention of gratitude and continued progress. Suggested Intention Focus for this week This week, as we contemplate the many positive stories to give thanks for so far this year, we suggest holding as our main intention: We give thanks and open ourselves to the joy of sharing the experience of good news in the many stories that we’ve heard, and will for continued progress and the encouragement we all can all take when major challenges are faced with a resolve to honour the highest good. Please join us in holding this. Chapter markers: 00:00:00            Introduction 00:04:02            Celebrating Good News 00:08:43            Progress in Conflict Resolution 00:15:34            Environmental and Climate Advances 00:19:45            Heartwarming Acts of Kindness 00:23:06            Gratitude for Positive Changes Sources referenced in this episode: https://news.sky.com/story/doomsday-clock-moves-closer-to-midnight-what-does-it-mean-12794884 https://www.military.com/daily-news/2025/12/10/aid-flow-gaza-falls-short-of-ceasefire-terms-analysis-of-israeli-figures-shows.html https://www.aljazeera.com/video/newsfeed/2026/1/30/rafah-reopening-set-for-sunday-as-israel-continues-to-block-aid https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/over-500000-people-returned-to-gaza-city-since-ceasefire-hamas-authorities-say/ https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/02/1166899 https://www.crisisgroup.org/cmt/africa/sudan-united-states-egypt-saudi-arabia-united-arab-emirates/all-eyes-quad-how-us-and-its-partners-can-push-peace-sudan https://www.positive.news/society/good-news-stories-from-week-5-of-2026/ https://ecohustler.com/daily/06th-january-2026 https://oceans-and-fisheries.ec.europa.eu/news/high-seas-treaty-enters-force-milestone-ocean-conservation-2026-01-16_en https://www.wri.org/insights/high-seas-treaty-explainer https://highseasalliance.org/2025/10/09/from-60-to-global-what-happens-next-for-the-high-seas-treaty/ https://www.sunnyskyz.com/feel-good-stories https://unn.ua/en/news/president-zelenskyy-announced-the-timeline-for-approving-the-peace-plan https://amaniafrica-et.org/provisional-programme-of-work-of-the-peace-and-security-council-for-january-2026/ https://www.positive.news/society/good-news-stories-from-week-5-of-2026/    https://www.globalnewsdiscover.com/2026/01/global-news-highlights-01-january-2026.html   https://www.euronews.com/green/2026/01/19/carbon-sucking-fungi-and-forever-chemical-crackdowns-positive-environmental-stories-from-2 https://tedxlondon.com/news/good-climate-news-to-kick-off-2026/ https://conservationoptimism.org/7-stories-of-optimism-this-week-20-01-26-26-01-26/  https://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/news/fieldnotes/january-2026 https://www.genevaenvironmentnetwork.org/resources/newsletter/environment-whats-up-in-geneva-19-25-january-2026/ https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01 https://www.the-londoner.co.uk/london-is-officially-one-of-the-safest-cities-in-the-western-world/ https://impact.economist.com/projects/safe-cities/assets/documents/Safe-Cities-Index-2021_eng.pdf www.kindspring.org/story/view.php?op=sg&sid=243199 Join us in person for intention holding:  https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.   Our websites:   www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.   https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.   https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.   https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.   Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.   Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.   Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.   Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).   Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.   Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.

    25 min

  3. FEB 5

    Is the US Facing a Bonhoeffer Moment? Faith, Resistance, and Minnesota's Crisis

    At a time when ordinary citizens are being shot on the streets and warrantless raids conducted in Minneapolis, we ask whether the US is witnessing a “Bonhoeffer moment”–a time when putting faith to the test in the face of oppression may involve great personal sacrifice. We reflect on the life and teachings of the Lutheran pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer, whose courage and example in resisting Naziism led to his paying the ultimate price. We ask whether there are echoes of the time he experienced in what’s being witnessed in Minnesota, and whether his model may be (or is) being played out today. We reflect upon his call to costly discipleship and the urgency for interfaith solidarity, nonviolent direct action, and prayerful courage for those defending vulnerable communities and holding power to account. Bonhoeffer’s appeal is a call to all people of faith to not just protest in silence, but put themselves at real risk in the cause of defending the teachings of their faith. In this 250th anniversary year in the US, and in Minneapolis in particular, people of faith across the US are already taking that brave step. Prayers and intentions start at 27 minutes 4 seconds. Suggested Intention Focus for this week This week, as we contemplate the powerful example of courage and conviction shown by Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the echoes of what is happening in Minnesota today with the rise of extremism in our own time, we suggest holding as our main intention: I will that I will have the courage to move from comfort to costly discipleship when I am called to oppose injustice. Please join us in holding this. Past episodes mentioned: Emergency Episode with Ellen and Chris Katzenmeyer: Contemplative Labyrinth Activism in a Time of Crisis: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-bvsue-1a307fd Christian Nationalism: Threat or Faith? A Deep Dive: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-tvhxa-19ca838 I Have a Dream: Nonviolent Power in an Age of Volatility: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ix6r8-1a251d4 Men Behaving Badly: Leaders Who Play The Religious Card: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-s4zbu-18e6f49 Chapter markers: 00:00:00            Introduction 00:01:30            A Wake-Up Call to Protest 00:03:49            Reflecting on Dietrich Bonhoeffer 00:05:37            The Cost of Discipleship 00:11:25            A Bonhoeffer Moment in Minnesota 00:12:38            The Erosion of Democratic Norms 00:16:43            The War Against Minnesota 00:18:18            The Normalization of Injustice 00:20:14            The Church’s Role in Resistance 00:22:03            The Call to Action 00:24:07            Lessons from Bonhoeffer for Today 00:27:04            Intentions and Prayers 00:29:58            Living by Costly Grace Sources referenced in this episode: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/1/27/us-witnessed-many-ice-related-deaths-in-2026-here-are-their-stories https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/1/15/ice-officer-shoots-venezuelan-immigrant-in-minneapolis-what-we-know https://www.interfaithamerica.org/article/nonprofits-can-turn-outrage-over-ice-into-a-big-tent-of-decency/ https://www.facebook.com/NPR/posts/the-episcopal-bishop-of-new-hampshire-told-priests-protesting-ice-to-get-their-w/1253088193354844/ https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/what-is-operation-metro-surge-what-to-know-about-dhs-immigration-enforcement-operation-in-minnesota-101769418903715.html https://www.gedenkstaette-flossenbuerg.de/en/history/prisoners/dietrich-bonhoeffer https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/dietrich-bonhoeffer     https://traffickinginstitute.org/incontext-dietrich-bonhoeffer/      https://christianhistoryinstitute.org/magazine/article/radical-resistance  https://www.bonhoeffer-initiative.com/en/dietrich-bonhoeffer/bonhoeffers-work https://christianhistoryinstitute.org/magazine/article/cost-of-discipleship-ch-141  https://alevelphilosophyandreligion.com/ocr-religious-studies/ocr-christianity/christian-moral-action/ https://gbtseminary.org/cheap-grace-bonhoeffer-and-the-cost-of-discipleship/ https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/themelios/article/christ-for-us-bonhoeffers-christology-and-ethic/    https://christianhistoryinstitute.org/magazine/article/bonhoeffers-costly-theology https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/literature-and-writing/letters-and-papers-prison-dietrich-bonhoeffer    https://learn.elca.org/jle/bonhoeffers-appeal-for-ethical-humility/ https://faithandleadership.com/why-dietrich-bonhoeffer-relevant-today https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/minneapolis-community-defies-ice-to-warn-immigrants-of-approaching-agents   https://reinodiary.com/2025/02/09/stupidity-and-evil-bonhoeffers-insights/   https://www.dw.com/en/ice-on-us-streets-challenges-american-norms-founding-values/a-75679947  https://ronrolheiser.com/social-justice-and-contemplation/  https://cac.org/daily-meditations/justice-is-love-in-action-2022-10-21/ https://museumofprotest.org/methods/prayer-and-worship/    https://www.cts.edu/2025/08/06/free-webinar-series-prayer-in-an-age-of-authoritarianism/  https://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/2006/02/03/february-3-2006-bonhoeffer-for-the-twenty-first-century/10261/ https://www.homebrewedchristianty.com/2024/10/28/the-roots-of-antisemitism-and-bonhoeffers-paradigm-of-resistance/ https://www.reddit.com/r/Christianity/comments/12ipv7v/cheap_grace_vs_costly_grace_dietrich_bonhoeffer/ https://www.equip.org/articles/troubling-truth-bonhoeffers-theology/ https://christianscholars.com/the-cost-of-grace-bonhoeffers-lesson-about-transformative-learning/ Join us in person for intention holding:  https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.   Our websites:   www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.   https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.   https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.   https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.   Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.   Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.   Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.   Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).   Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.   Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.

    33 min

  4. FEB 3

    The UN at 80: Achievements, Failures, and the Fight for Relevance

    To mark the United Nations’ 80th anniversary, we trace its origins, major achievements, and reflect upon its vital role in multilateral cooperation. We also note its shortcomings and consider the many challenges it faces at what seems like a critical crossroad in world history. Can the UN stay fit for purpose and hold together as global powers increasingly shift focus to regional influence and finding unilateral solutions to issues like migration, security and health? As UN Secretary-General António Guterres says, despite its need to reform, the UN may never be more needed. As always, we invite listeners to join us in holding intentions and prayers for wise leadership, fairer funding, and renewed global cooperation. Prayers and intention start at 42 minutes 31 seconds. Suggested Intention Focus for this week This week, as we consider the vital role and many challenges the UN faces as it marks its 80-year anniversary, we suggest holding as our main intention: We will that all global leaders will be moved by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres’ call to “Get serious. Choose people and planet over pain.” Please join us in holding this. Mentioned in this episode: Contemplative activism online workshop hosted Legacy Labyrinth Project THIS SATURDAY, 31 January 2026 at 10am MST (2 hours): https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/llpa Find out about the UN’s 80th anniversary, its achievements and challenges at: https://www.un.org/en/UN80 Chapter markers: 00:00:08            Introduction 00:01:32            UN’s 80th Anniversary 00:08:08            Achievements of the UN 00:17:09            UN’s Challenges and Critiques 00:24:44            Current UN Engagements 00:31:09            UN’s Future Initiatives 00:37:48            The Path Forward for the UN 00:42:31            Intentions and Prayers 00:46:16            Contemplative Activism Initiative Sources referenced in this episode: https://unacov.uk/un80-initiative/  https://warroom.armywarcollege.edu/articles/wb12-un-greatest-accomplishment/        https://www.ungeneva.org/en/meetings-events/events/observances-special-events/2025/10/united-nations-80 https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/09/un-marking-80th-anniversary-plan-for-change/   https://ace-usa.org/blog/research/research-foreignpolicy/failures-and-successes-of-the-un/   https://www.cfr.org/timelines/major-moments-un-history  https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2025      https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7128315/ https://www.crisisgroup.org/global/sb13-ten-challenges-un-2025-2026       https://www.securitycouncilreport.org/whatsinblue/2025/11/un-peacekeeping-operations-closed-consultations.php    https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/08/world/united-nations-humanitarian-aid-cuts.html     https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/statements/2026-01-15/secretary-generals-remarks-the-general-assembly-priorities-for-2026     https://press.un.org/en/2026/db260119.doc.htm      https://press.un.org/en/2026/db260120.doc.htm   https://www.unrefugees.org/news/un-refugee-agency-estimates-25-million-people-need-resettlement/   https://www.zif-berlin.org/sites/zif-berlin.org/files/2025-11/ZIF World Map Peace Operations_2025-2026.pdf https://peacekeeping.un.org/en/united-nations-peacekeeping-ministerial-2025 https://www.who.int/news-room/spotlight/stronger-together-milestones-that-mattered-in-2025      https://www.who.int/about/general-programme-of-work/fourteenth  https://sdg.iisd.org/commentary/policy-briefs/pact-for-the-future-from-adoption-to-implementation/   https://www.justsecurity.org/103380/un-future-pact-reform/    https://globalsolutions.org/updates/mondial-journal/the-pact-for-the-future-steps-toward-a-modernized-united-nation/   https://www.un.org/pact-for-the-future/en/about-pact  https://passblue.com/2025/01/14/security-council-reform-when-and-how-it-can-be-done/    https://unfccc.int/news/secretary-general-s-remarks-to-the-general-assembly-on-priorities-for-2026  https://www.ipinst.org/2025/09/the-un-at-80-charting-a-path-for-the-future-of-multilateralism   https://www.un.org/en/climatechange https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sustainable_Development_Goals https://press.un.org/en/2025/sc16201.doc.htm https://www.culturaldiplomacy.org/academy/index.php?en_historical-examples https://currents.plos.org/disasters/article/the-2016-world-humanitarian-summit-report-card-both-failing-marks-and-substantive-gains-for-an-increasingly-globalized-humanitarian-landscape/pdf/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8490833/ https://unfoundation.org/unga80/ https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/01/1166783 https://www.un.org/en/about-us/history-of-the-un/2011-2020 Join us in person for intention holding:  https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.   Our websites:   www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.   https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.   https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.   https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.   Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.   Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.   Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.   Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).   Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.   Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.

    49 min

  5. JAN 29

    Emergency Episode with Ellen and Chris Katzenmeyer: Contemplative Labyrinth Activism in a Time of Turmoil

    At a time when ordinary citizens are struggling to know what they can do in response to disturbing events on our doorsteps, such as the explosion of force on the streets of Minneapolis during recent weeks, Ellen talks to Legacy Labyrinth Project Director Chris Katzenmeyer about the power of contemplative activism. Drawing on extensive research and experience, they explain how using the labyrinth for such activism may play a powerful and proven role in having impact that doesn’t require taking to the streets. In this emergency episode, Chris and Ellen explain the background, and suggest simple steps that listeners can take right now to put activism focussed on the deeply moving issues of the day into practice. See below for information about how to join the introductory workshop that Chris and Ellen are hosting online this coming weekend. Suggested Intention Focus for this week This week, as we consider the vital role that contemplative activism can make in responding to the urgent crises unfolding in our world, we suggest holding as our main intention: I am open to receiving the information I need to be a force and take action for the highest good in this world. Please join us in holding this. Mentioned in this episode: Contemplative Activism online workshop hosted Legacy Labyrinth Project THIS SATURDAY, 31 January 2026 at 10am MST (2 hours): https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/llpa Fuller course: Contemplative Labyrinth Activism, starting 28 February 2026 at 9am MST (2 hours x 5 weeks): https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/llpa Legacy Labyrinth Project website: https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ ‘Radical Regeneration: Sacred Activism and the Renewal of the World,’ Andrew Harvey & Carolyn Baker. Amazon.com link: https://www.amazon.com/Radical-Regeneration-Sacred-Activism-Renewal/dp/1644115603/ref=sr_1_1 ‘Contemplation in Action,’ Richard Rohr. Amazon.com link: https://www.amazon.com/Contemplation-Action-Richard-Rohr/dp/0824523881/ref=sr_1_1 Center for Contemplation and Action (founded by Richard Rohr): https://cac.org/ HeartMath Institute: www.heartmath.org IONS: www.noetic.org Heart-Brain meditation (YouTube): https://youtu.be/qwq9-BPxuBE?si=SuYfs1_uD3bdhrQS Finger labyrinth download: https://www.worldlabyrinthday.org/resources/finger-labyrinths. Chapter markers: 00:00:00            Introduction 00:03:04            What is Contemplative Labyrinth Activism? 00:03:56            Difference from Traditional Activism 00:06:40            The Power of Collective Intention 00:15:23            Insights from Richard Rohr 00:17:27            How to Practice CLA 00:22:57            Upcoming Events and Courses 00:24:28            Closing Thoughts and Intentions Join us in person for intention holding:  https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.   Our websites:   www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.   https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.   https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.   https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.   Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.   Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.   Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.   Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).   Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.   Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.

    25 min

  6. JAN 22

    I Have a Dream: Nonviolent Power in an Age of Volatility

    In a week in which Martin Luther King Jr. Day is celebrated, we reflect on whether the principles of nonviolence and strategic approach to protest that he advocated are still relevant for what is happening in our world today, especially focusing on demonstrations in Minneapolis and Iran. We explore what King taught, and consider how we may individually apply his teaching, as well as when we join with others in a collective. As always, we return to see where our intentions and prayers may be most needed, as vitally important demonstrations continue in various parts of the world. Intention and prayers start at 34 minutes 55 seconds. Suggested Intention Focus for this week This week, as we wrestle with the challenge of maintaining peace, compassion and non-divisiveness in protests, and remembering that protesting is often so needed in a violent and volatile world, we suggest holding as our main intention: We will to remain strong in remembering and putting into practice the principle of non-violence whenever we feel called to protest against injustices in our communities and world. Please join us in holding this. Mentioned in this episode: Ellen's Sacred Feminist blog, Climbing to the Mountaintop Parts 1, 2 and 3: http://sacredfeminist.com/happy-mlk-day/ http://sacredfeminist.com/climbing-to-the-the-mountaintop-part-1/ http://sacredfeminist.com/climbing-to-the-mountaintop-part-2/ http://sacredfeminist.com/climbing-to-the-mountaintop-part-3/ Book: The Hope by Andrew Harvey Amazon.com link: https://www.amazon.com/Hope-Guide-Sacred-Activism/dp/1401920039/ref=sr_1_1 Chapter markers: 00:00:00            Introduction 00:02:05            Protests and Change 00:05:31            The Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. 00:07:17            Nonviolent Strategies for Activism 00:10:33            Compassion in Activism 00:12:20            Modern Movements and Their Challenges 00:15:46            Ellen’s Reflections on Feminist Action 00:19:07            The Montgomery Bus Boycott 00:20:47            Creative Protests and Media Influence 00:27:06            The Power of Collective Will 00:29:05            Individual Responsibility in Activism 00:33:34            Engaging with Nonviolent Protest 00:34:55            Intentions and Prayers Sources referenced in this episode: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2018/04/kings-message-of-nonviolence-has-been-distorted/557021/        https://www.westmont.edu/civil-disobedience-and-legacy-martin-luther-king-jr     https://commonslibrary.org/198-methods-of-nonviolent-action/  https://the-conflictexpert.com/2025/04/29/non-violent-protest-heres-how-to-do-it/   https://frompoverty.oxfam.org.uk/what-tactics-are-most-effective-in-non-violent-protest/       https://www.journalofdemocracy.org/articles/how-to-sharpen-a-nonviolent-movement/   https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00905917211021796   http://prt.civicus.org/strategies/   https://www.newyorker.com/news/q-and-a/how-violent-protests-change-politics      https://ejournal.umm.ac.id/index.php/celtic/article/download/12126/pdf  https://ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ijel/article/view/0/51143 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00947679.2000.12062526 https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/f00eed15dc258c516cd6f56a880090ecbf027cd1 https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/0483f2020086d3cdf6293095227f75bab62207e6 https://www.ojcmt.net/download/effects-of-mass-media-framing-of-protest-movements-a-meta-analysis-and-systematic-review-of-mass-11538.pdf http://arxiv.org/pdf/2406.13820.pdf https://ojs.unm.ac.id/iap/article/download/17929/9861 https://ojs.unm.ac.id/sosialisasi/article/download/13889/8131 https://revistas.pucp.edu.pe/index.php/psicologia/article/download/27887/25877 http://hfrir.jvolsu.com/index.php/en/component/attachments/download/1093 https://www.cogitatiopress.com/mediaandcommunication/article/download/5796/5796 https://www.nonviolent-conflict.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Peaceful-Resistance-and-Nonviolent-Actions-for-Social-Change-Edknowledge-Mandikwaza.pdf https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nonviolent_resistance https://www.reddit.com/r/changemyview/comments/1kazuo6/cmv_the_liberal_focus_on_nonviolent_protests/ https://wagingnonviolence.org/2017/05/moral-nonviolence-healing-king/ https://www.nonviolent-conflict.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/wri_handbook_2014_inner_AMENDED.compressed1.pdf http://www.beyondintractability.org/bi24/nonviolent-protest-strategy https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/16/us/renee-good-shooting-incident-report https://www.reuters.com/world/us/fatal-ice-shooting-minneapolis-activist-sets-stage-national-protests-2026-01-10/ https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/1/15/trump-threatens-to-use-insurrection-act-to-end-minneapolis https://www.ms.now/opinion/trump-renee-good-investigation-minneapolis-ice-activist https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/13/us/prosecutors-doj-resignation-ice-shooting.html https://edition.cnn.com/2026/01/14/us/illinois-minnesota-suing-trump-lawsuit Join us in person for intention holding:  https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.   Our websites:   www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.   https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.   https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.   https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.   Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.   Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.   Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.   Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).   Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.   Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.

    40 min

  7. JAN 14

    Iran in Uprising: Courage, Crackdown, and Calls for Compassion

    In this episode, we take a sobering look at the nationwide protests that have now reached every province of Iran, which have been met with a severe government crackdown that has by some reports led to as many as 12,000 citizens already losing their lives. We consider the background, personal stories from protesters, reports of human rights abuses, and international reactions, and highlight where our intentions and prayers may be most needed. We honour the courage and beautiful examples of humanity being shown by so many in such terrifying circumstances. Please join us in our collective prayer and intention holding. Prayers and intentions start at 22 minutes 30 seconds. Suggested Intention Focus for this week This week, as we reflect on the observation of one Iranian that “the people of Iran do not want war…they long for peace…but what can be done when the government refuses to step down and must be removed by external force?”, we suggest holding as our main intention: We will that the people of Iran will collectively receive wisdom to know how to act in the interest of both their own and their country’s highest good. Please join us in holding this. Chapter Markers: 00:00:00            Introduction 00:02:16            Background 00:05:39            Understanding the Economic Crisis 00:09:13            Voices from the Protests 00:13:58            Government’s Response to the Unrest 00:18:52            International Reactions to the Crisis 00:22:30            Intentions and Prayers Sources referenced in this episode: https://www.ncr-iran.org/en/news/iran-news-in-brief-news/iran-news-in-brief-january-7-2026/   https://dawnmena.org/irans-current-uprising-and-the-collapse-of-ideological-legitimacy/   https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/03/world/middleeast/iran-protests-inflation-currency.html https://www.iranintl.com/en/202601061682   https://www.euronews.com/business/2025/12/31/empty-tables-sanctions-battered-currency-why-irans-protests-are-different-this-time https://www.cnn.com/2026/01/08/middleeast/how-irans-protests-spread-intl    https://eaworldview.com/2026/01/protesters-in-iran/     https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-protest-kurd-khamenei/33641405.html         https://news.sky.com/story/inside-irans-protests-gunfire-hospital-raids-and-growing-anger-13491629  https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/news/story/irans-new-wave-protests-prompt-hospital-raids-internet-129020839   https://www.hrw.org/news/2026/01/08/iran-authorities-renewed-cycle-of-protest-bloodshed https://en.radiozamaneh.com/37636/  https://iranhumanrights.org/2026/01/iranian-authorities-intensify-crackdown-on-protests-with-live-fire-arbitrary-arrests-and-attacks-on-hospitals/                 https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2026/01/iran-deaths-injuries-authorities-protest-bloodshed/        https://www.euronews.com/2026/01/08/mass-protests-erupt-in-irans-capital-after-exiled-princes-call-internet-shut-off-nationwid  https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2026/01/07/iran-s-regime-faces-combined-pressure-from-street-protests-israel-and-us_6749189_4.html   https://www.iranintl.com/en/202601078628 https://www.aa.com.tr/en/world/iran-condemns-us-interference-in-its-internal-affairs-amid-protests/3792955  https://www.cfr.org/expert-brief/unpacking-irans-protests-and-trumps-threats https://www.ncr-iran.org/en/ncri-statements/statement-human-rights/irans-regime-executes-15-prisoners-on-january-6-and-7-2026/ https://iranhumanrights.org/2022/12/iran-protests-detained-university-students-subjected-to-sexual-assault-disappearances/  https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2023/03/iran-child-detainees-subjected-to-flogging-electric-shocks-and-sexual-violence-in-brutal-protest-crackdown/  https://dissentmagazine.org/online_articles/women-life-freedom-iran-uprising-origins/  https://www.iranintl.com/en/202211291895    https://www.erudit.org/en/journals/atlantis/2023-v44-n2-atlantis09104/1109372ar.pdf https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2022/09/iran-deadly-crackdown-on-protests-against-mahsa-aminis-death-in-custody-needs-urgent-global-action/ https://www.dissentmagazine.org/online_articles/women-life-freedom-iran-uprising-origins/ https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2023/09/what-happened-to-mahsa-zhina-amini/ https://www.vidc.org/en/detail/women-life-freedom-a-new-revolutionary-era-in-iran https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/1/6/protests-grow-as-irans-government-makes-meager-offer-amid-tanking-economy https://www.france24.com/en/asia-pacific/20260108-security-forces-attack-hospital-protests-western-iran   https://persecution.org/2023/01/27/iranian-christians-persevere-under-intense-persecution/ https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/irans-rulers-face-legitimacy-crisis-amid-spreading-unrest-2026-01-09/ https://www.hrw.org/news/2026/01/06/iranian-authorities-brutally-repressing-protests https://www.aljazeera.com/video/newsfeed/2026/1/9/street-protests-grow-in-iran-as-the-country-faces-an-internet-blackout https://www.france24.com/en/asia-pacific/20260107-iran-s-army-chief-vows-response-to-threats-from-trump-and-netanyahu https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn564q0vgvxo https://www.insightturkey.com/commentary/iran-in-the-wake-of-mahsa-aminis-death https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd0yldn0n7eo https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2026/01/iran-deaths-injuries-authorities-protest-bloodshed/ https://news.sky.com/story/number-of-iranian-dead-passes-2-000-as-protests-continue-13493859 https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/c1dk41q3plgt https://www.cbsnews.com/news/iran-protest-death-toll-over-12000-feared-higher-video-bodies-at-morgue/ Join us in person for intention holding:  https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.   Our websites:   www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.   https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.   https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.   https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.   Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.   Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.   Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.   Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).   Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.   Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.

    31 min

  8. JAN 8

    Grounded: Practicing Presence in Turbulent Times

    A new year and a new quarter means a new theme for Global Healing Response, and this quarter the focus is presence, and its critical importance in these trying times. We explore what being present really means, why it matters, and suggest some simple tips for staying present and grounded. Suggested Intention Focus for this week This week, as we consider the importance of presence for establishing our grounding for the year ahead (the Global Healing Response theme for this year and quarter), we suggest holding as our main intention: We will that we will receive deep insight into what it means to be present, and through such insight and our lived experience, resolve whenever we become distracted to anchor ourselves in the present. Please join us in holding this. Prayers and intentions begin at 32 minutes 7 seconds. Global Healing Response Q1 2026 theme, Presence: https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Forthcoming Legacy Labyrinth Academy training: Contemplative Labyrinth Activism, 5 weeks 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. MST, beginning February 28. Introduction to Contemplative Labyrinth Activism, 10am MST (2 hours), January 31. Info and registration for both courses at https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/llpa. Chapter markers: 00:00:00            Introduction 00:03:21            The Practice of Presence 00:08:41            The Cost of Distraction 00:13:44            Resilience in Uncertain Times 00:17:31            Grounding in a Chaotic World 00:20:01            Training for Contemplative Activism 00:22:33            Practical Steps for Being Present 00:32:07            Intentions and Prayers Sources referenced in this episode: Wherever You Go, There You Are, by Jon Kabat-Zinn Coming To Our Senses: Healing Ourselves and the World Through Mindfulness, by Jon Kabat-Zinn The Art of Living: Peace and Freedom in the Here and Now, by Thich Nhat Hanh  Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life, by Thich Nhat Hanh ‘Islands of Coherence,’ Future Observatory Journal, https://fojournal.org/strategy-report/islands-of-coherence/ https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1539962/full https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3679190/ https://ezracounseling.com/grounded-meaning-strategies-for-emotional-stability/ http://bmcpsychology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40359-016-0168-6 https://www.onepeloton.com/blog/how-to-be-more-present https://in.yvex.de/area/grounded-energetic-presence/ https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-be-more-present https://therapeuticpartners.com/2025/01/24/the-benefits-of-mindfulness-cultivating-peace-and-presence-in-everyday-life/ https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03057240.2022.2075837   https://sambarecovery.com/rehab-blog/why-staying-present-in-the-moment-is-essential-in-healing/ https://dharma-college.com/achieving-emotional-stability/ https://growmindfulness.com/finding-stability-and-predictability-in-times-of-uncertainty/ https://ei4change.com/mindful-resilience-in-times-of-uncertainty-navigating-challenges-with-presence-and-adaptability/ https://mentalzon.com/en/post/3801/finding-stability-in-uncertainty-simple-practices-to-ground-your-mind https://online.ucpress.edu/jvs/article/19/1/1/200072/The-Life-and-Legacies-of-Thich-Nh-t-H-nh https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17400201.2023.2246922 https://www.globalbuddhism.org/article/download/3812/5140 https://www.mdpi.com/2409-9287/6/2/50/pdf https://www.mindful.org/how-present-moment-awareness-can-make-life-more-meaningful/ https://mindfulnessbox.com/thich-nhat-hanh-quotes-on-mindfulness/ https://www.lionsroar.com/the-power-of-awareness-jon-kabat-zinn-in-conversation/ https://gomacro.com/blogs/resources/9-benefits-of-living-in-the-present-moment Join us in person for intention holding:  https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.   Our websites:   www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.   https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.   https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.   https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.   https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.   Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.   Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.   Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.   Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).   Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.   Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.

    38 min
See All (100)

About

Impact! is a podcast that creates change WITH our listeners, using the power of prayer and intention to bring about positive change in our world. Each week, we explore one aspect of what it means to pray, offer healing, or send intention out into the world, and by so doing, to actually have an impact. We welcome anyone who wants to play their part in creating peace, harmony and healing in the world.

Information

  • Creator
    Ellen Bintz & Clive Johnson
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Impact! Productions 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Impact!